Suffering an unfortunate penalty, U23 Vietnam was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the U23 Asia

The only goal lost caused U23 Vietnam to lose to U23 Iraq.

U23 Vietnam is not highly appreciated after its performance in the group stage, especially the loss to U23 Uzbekistan. However, before the strong opponent U23 Iraq, coach Hoang Anh Tuan’s students showed a different face.

U23 Vietnam entered the game confidently and played fairly with their opponents. There are still moments of carelessness, but in general, the midfield and defenders of U23 Vietnam have improved a lot by playing simpler and more decisive football.

On the offensive front, coach Hoang Anh Tuan’s students have a chance to score. However, the U23 Vietnamese player handled it hastily and incorrectly.

U23 Vietnam played well against U23 Iraq. (Photo: AFC)

In the first half, U23 Vietnam’s ball control rate was lower than the opponent’s. However, Iraq U23 did not create many highly threatening attacks. It wasn’t until midway through the second half that U23 Vietnam’s defense faced great and continuous pressure.

Iraq U23 dominated the ball control and tried to press. Decreased physical strength makes it more difficult for coach Hoang Anh Tuan’s students to face the fast and strong players of the West Asian team.

In a not bad defensive position, U23 Vietnam conceded a goal at a rare moment of loss of concentration. A light touch from goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan’s hand was enough for the referee to blow a penalty.

Ali Jasim did not miss the opportunity to score the opening goal in the 64th minute. This is the third goal of number 7 U23 Iraq and all 3 goals were penalty kicks.

Ali Jasim scored to eliminate U23 Vietnam. (Photo: AFC)

U23 Iraq continued to dominate after scoring the opening goal. U23 Vietnam tries to regain calm and focus. At the end of the match, coach Hoang Anh Tuan adjusted the attack. U23 Vietnam tried to find an equalizer but could not get a shot.

Not only that, Nguyen Manh Hung’s red card when the match entered overtime made it even more difficult for U23 Vietnam. Once again, coach Hoang Anh Tuan’s students showed psychological incompetence at a critical moment.

U23 Vietnam cannot create a surprise in the little time left. In the last minute, VAR saved U23 Vietnam from a penalty kick. However, that did not help coach Hoang Anh Tuan and his team turn the situation around. U23 Vietnam lost 0-1 to U23 Iraq and were eliminated in the quarterfinals of U23 Asia 2024.

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