Tien Giang beat Hoang Anh Gia Lai (HAGL) by a solitary goal at the U21 National Football Tournament at Go Dau Stadium on Sunday.

In another Group B match later in the day, reigning champions Da Nang were held 1-1 by Quang Ninh.

Both Tien Giang and HAGL fought hard for a win after suffering defeats in their first round matches against Da Nang and Quang Ninh on Friday.

HAGL played attacking football and dominated the match. Tran Vu and Thanh Liem and left winger Ro Lan combined well and launched rapid attacks that helped the Central Highlands representative put the Mekong Delta side under great pressure.

HAGL had three scoring chances in the first half. Yet its close-range shots were all saved by Tien Giang custodian Le Minh Chien, whose outstanding display won him the player of the match award.

Weak counterattacks from Tien Giang in the second half made it possible for HAGL to control the midfield and continue its relentless attacks.

However, their defenders’ lack of concentration cost the team dear six minutes into the second halr, as Ngoc Huy prevailed over goalkeeper Tuan Manh in a one-on-one situation.

Ten minutes from time, HAGL had an opportunity to level the score with a penalty Tran Vu’s shot was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Chien.

Tien Giang, which has three points now, must beat Quang Ninh on Tuesday to progress while its rival and Da Nang with four points each only need draws to book their semifinal berths.

Source: Thanh Nien