Vietnam and the Philippines today closed their second match goalless for Men’s Football in SEA Games 31.

A Vietnam player (in red) and Philippine footballer in the match on May 8. Photos: Hoang Quan

In the match held on May 8 in Viet Tri Stadium, north of Hanoi, the home team left pressure on the Azkals in most of the games, which took place two days after their start with a convincing win for both.

Dominating the match, Coach Park Hang-seo’s players could not turn opportunities into scores. In addition, rain made the pitch slick and wet, along with the Philippines’ mass defense, affecting the homeowner’s coordination.

Delivering the post-match speech, Park said the draw is obviously unsatisfied, saying that the rivals’ dense defense troubled Vietnam and challenged it, requiring countermeasures to break through such a defense system. “This is an issue that we need to improve, but also an opportunity for us to learn from the experience when facing similar players in the future,” the South Korean tactician said.

Tien Linh (9) is unable to shine in the match before the Philippines' solid defense.

Meanwhile, Coach Norman Fegidero of the Philippines said he was satisfied with the draw. “Vietnam is the defending champion and the top seed for the gold medal in this SEA Games. Therefore, drawing them today is a big success for us,” he said.

“My players also have to try their best to block the powerful attacks of the home side but the rain more or less helps us in this way of playing,” Fegidero noted.

The result helps the Philippines retain its first place in Group A with four points (four goals) while Vietnam ranks second with the same point and three goals.

In Group B, Thailand lost 1-2 to Malaysia, Myanmar won Timor Leste 3-2 while Singapore and Laos held 2-2 draw results.

Vietnam’s next match will take place on May 13 versus Timor Leste. 

Around 20,000 fans support players even in rain.