Hosts and defending champions Vietnam are on top of group B in the Suzuki Cup being played in Hanoi after crushing Myanmar 7-1 Thursday. In another match in the group, Singapore and the Philippines drew 1-1.

Vietnamese players played a superb pressing game, keeping the visitors deep in their own half most of the time.

Going into attack right from the opening whistle, Vietnam took a 1-0 lead just 12 minutes into the game when striker Anh Duc blasted home.

But their joy lasted just three minutes as Myanmar launched their first attack and Han Win Aung leveled the score at 1-1.

But that was all the visitors managed to do during the entire game.

Vietnam continued to press forward and regained the lead in the 30th minute. From a free kick from 18 meters, Minh Phuong curled a shot over the defensive wall that went into the right corner to make it 2-1 for Vietnam.

In the second half, Vietnam stunned their rivals with five more strikes to seal a 7-1 victory.

Duc and substitute Trong Hoang both scored a brace while Tan Tai and Vu Phong completed the tally.

Myanmar coach Myint Aung told the post-match conference the result was a fair indication of the teams.

“Vietnam were far better than Myanmar in terms of skills and tactics and we were penalized for our failure to keep our concentration during the game.

“Vietnam look strong in their campaign to defend their title.”

Vietnamese coach Henrique Calisto said: “We always respect our rivals, but honestly we still missed many clear chances to score.”

Vietnam have three points while Singapore and the Philippines have one each.

On Sunday the hosts take on the Philippines and Myanmar face Singapore.

Source: Tuoi Tre