Vietnam control the game

Vietnam entered the second leg with a two-goal advantage from Kuala Lumpur. Despite making five changes to the starting lineup, coach Kim Sang-sik’s side maintained control and created a series of chances against Malaysia.

Dinh Bac, Van Hau, Hai Long and Hoang Hen were among the players involved in Vietnam’s attacking moves in the first half. The hosts controlled the midfield, attacked from different areas and regularly threatened the Malaysian goal.

Needing at least two goals to bring the tie level, Malaysia struggled to create clear opportunities for much of the half. Vietnam’s defence remained organised, while the Malaysian goalkeeper made several important saves.

The first half ended goalless, but Vietnam stayed firm in control of the tie.

Malaysia pushed higher after the break in search of a goal, leaving more space behind their defence and giving Vietnam greater opportunities to counterattack.

Xuan Son seals Vietnam’s place in the final

Coach Kim introduced Nguyen Xuan Son in the 59th minute, and the striker made an immediate impact.

In the 62nd minute, Xuan Son reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the Malaysian penalty area and fired home from close range to put Vietnam ahead.

The goal made Malaysia’s task even more difficult, as they needed four goals to overturn the aggregate deficit.

Malaysia continued to push forward, but their attacks lacked the sharpness needed to break through Vietnam’s defence. The hosts, meanwhile, continued to create dangerous opportunities in transition.

Xuan Son completed his brace in the 89th minute, finishing from a tight angle after a build-up involving his teammates to seal the 2-0 victory. The result gave Vietnam a 4-0 aggregate win and a place in the ASEAN Cup 2026 final.

Thailand had already secured the other final berth after eliminating Singapore. Vietnam and Thailand will meet over two legs, with the first scheduled for August 22 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok and the return leg on August 26 at My Dinh Stadium.

Vietnam close to ASEAN Cup final, how can Malaysia turn the tie around?

VOV.VN - Vietnam hold a commanding 2-0 advantage over Malaysia heading into the second leg of their ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinal at My Dinh Stadium, leaving the visitors with little choice but to attack while the hosts can play with greater tactical freedom.