WOMEN’S FOOTBALL: VIETNAM TO TAKE ON THAILAND IN FINAL

Vietnam beat hosts Laos 3-0 today in the decisive round robin game.

Needing just a draw to confirm their chance of having a shot at gold, it was Vietnam who pushed hard in the opening quarter through the hard work of Kim Hong and Doant Kim Chi from the flanks.

With Laos pushing hard for the win through Souphavanh Phayvanh at the centre of the park, a mistake at the back saw defender Nart Sitthiphonh being penalised for a foul on Nguyen Thi Muon in the 14th minute.

Kim Hong did not miss from the spot as he sent Laos keeper Hongthong Choulapang the wrong way for the first goal.

Laos then shore up their defence to deny Vietnam to just a few shots although they did come close through Lethi Oanh but with only Hongthong to beat, she sent the ball wide.

A missed half-volley from Van Thui Thanh later saw Laos under pressure as they came into the second half, desperate for the equaliser.

And just when things were getting close for Laos, they fell further behind in the 73rd minute when Kim Hong slammed home from close range.

Kim Chi then put the game beyond Laos’ reach with the third and final goal of the evening to set-up a rematch with Thailand.