March 05, 2026 | 19:58 (GMT+7)
2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup: Vietnam secure crucial opening win
Vietnam made a dramatic start to their Group C campaign at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, edging India 2-1 in Perth, Australia, on March 4.
From the outset, the Vietnamese side dominated possession, repeatedly exploiting the flanks and applying sustained pressure on India’s defense.
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Vietnam’s women’s national football team defeat India 2-1. (Photo: VFF) |
The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Van Su showed her composure at the edge of the box before curling a precise finish into the top corner to give Vietnam a deserved lead.
India equalized in the 52nd minute after a defensive lapse allowed the ball to fall kindly to Nongrum, who reacted quickly to slot home from close range and level the score at 1-1.
Just as the match appeared destined for a draw, drama unfolded deep into stoppage time. In the 90+4th minute, an incomplete clearance by the Indian defense inside the penalty area fell to Van Su, who pounced swiftly to fire home the rebound, sealing a 2-1 victory to the delight of her teammates.
The hard-fought but deserved win handed Vietnam a valuable three points in their tournament opener, giving them an early advantage in the race for a quarter-final berth.
In their next fixture, head coach Mai Duc Chung and his players will face Chinese Taipei, who suffered a 0-2 defeat to Japan in their opening match.
Source: VNA