Suffering an unfortunate penalty, U23 Vietnam was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the U23 Asia.

(VTC News) - U23 Vietnam stopped at the 2024 U23 Asian tournament after losing to U23 Iraq with a score of 0-1 in the quarter-finals.

Vietnam U23 was not highly rated after their performance in the group stage, especially the loss to Uzbekistan U23. However, against a strong opponent, Iraq U23, coach Hoang Anh Tuan's students showed a different side.

U23 Vietnam entered the match confidently and played fairly with their opponents. There were still moments of carelessness, but overall, the midfield and defense of U23 Vietnam improved a lot by playing simpler and more decisive football.

On the offensive front, coach Hoang Anh Tuan's players had a chance to score. However, the U23 Vietnam players handled the shot hastily and inaccurately.

Suffering an unfortunate penalty, U23 Vietnam was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the U23 Asia. — U23 Vietnam played well against U23 Iraq. (Photo: AFC)

In the first half, U23 Vietnam had less ball control than their opponents. However, U23 Iraq did not create many high-intensity attacks. It was not until the middle of the second half that U23 Vietnam's defense faced great and continuous pressure.

U23 Iraq dominated the ball and tried to put pressure on the team. Their declining physical strength made it more difficult for coach Hoang Anh Tuan's players to face the fast and strong players of the West Asian team.

In a not-so-bad defensive game, U23 Vietnam conceded a goal in a rare moment of distraction. A light touch from goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan's hand was enough for the referee to award a penalty.

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

U23 Iraq continued to dominate after scoring the opening goal. U23 Vietnam tried to regain their composure and concentration. At the end of the match, coach Hoang Anh Tuan adjusted the attack. U23 Vietnam tried to find an equalizer but could not make any shots.

Not only that, Nguyen Manh Hung's red card when the match entered extra time made it even more difficult for U23 Vietnam. Once again, coach Hoang Anh Tuan's students showed their psychological weakness at the crucial moment.

U23 Vietnam could not create any surprises in the little time left. In the last minute, VAR saved U23 Vietnam from a penalty. 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 was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the 2024 AFC U23 Championship.

TIEU MINH

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