VietNamNet Bridge – Vietnam will face powerhouse Iran in the semi-final tomorrow in the ongoing International Under-21 Football tournament after they lost to Thailand 2-1 in the qualifying match at Tu Do Stadium in Hue city yesterday.

Taking full advantage of a troubled situation before Thailand scored, Nguyen Duc Thien scored the first goal for the hosts thanks to a pass from Phuc Hiep in the 7th minute. (Photo: VNN)

Taking full advantage of a troubled situation before Thailand scored, Nguyen Duc Thien scored the first goal for the hosts thanks to a pass from Phuc Hiep in the 7th minute.

During the 16th minute Duc Tai made a spectacular shot from the right wing but the Thai goalkeeper blocked the attempt.

Another chance came for Vietnam 27 minutes later when Tai once more shot the ball, but it hit the crossbar.

Thailand, who thrashed Malaysia 4-1 on Monday, seized an opportunity in extra time before the break to score, but Y. Manueangra replied immediately to level the score.

After the break, Vietnam found their rhythm and put pressure on the Thailand goal, but to no avail.

The Thai players redoubled their offensive efforts and in the 70th minute, striker N. Kalkaew drew gasps from the fans when he scored the second goal for the visitors.

Vietnam created many chances but failed to convert in the second half.

Thailand, who already qualified for the semi-finals and is now on top of group A, will meet the winner of the match between Myanmar and Singapore which played later yesterday in other semi-finals tomorrow.

The tournament, also known as the Thanh Nien (Young People) Newspaper Cup, which has been recognised by the Asian Football Confederation as a new international championship for younger players in the region, drew teams from Thailand, Singapore, Myanmar, Iran and Vietnam.

The final will be played on Sunday and the winner will pocket a cash prize of US$10,000.

Last August, Vietnam beat Thailand 1-0 to lift the trophy at August 19 Stadium in the central coastal city of Nha Trang.

(Source: Viet Nam News)