Malaysian media express concern as Vietnam continues to secure victories

Malaysian media express anxiety as Vietnam keeps up its remarkable performance by defeating Nepal, thereby closing the distance and intensifying pressure on Malaysia in Group F.

A well-known Malaysian sports site is Makan Bola which published a prominent article following Vietnam’s 1-0 victory against Nepal at Thong Nhat Stadium in the fourth match of Group F in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. According to this site, the win by coach Kim Sang Sik’s team not only helps the “Golden Star Warriors” continue chasing Malaysia but also demonstrates the team’s resilience and determination amid a generational transition.

Makan Bola opened the article with the headline:“Vietnam continues pursuit of Malaysia after a 1-0 win over Nepal at Thong Nhat Stadium.” The site states that Vietnam was compelled to win to keep pressure on Malaysia, who leads Group F with consistent form. Conversely, Nepal started the match hoping to earn their first points.

In the first half, a turning point came from a stroke of bad luck. Nepal’s center-back Suman Shrestha accidentally scored an own goal while trying to block, allowing Vietnam to take a 1-0 lead. Makan Bola described it as an “unfortunate incident,” where the player sent the ball beyond the reach of goalkeeper Kiran Limbu.

After the goal, Vietnam continuously pushed forward, creating several dangerous chances through combinations involving Tiến Linh and Văn Vĩ. However, goalkeeper Kiran Limbu had an outstanding day, preventing Nepal from conceding more goals in the first half.

In the second half, coach Kim Sang Sik introduced fresh players like Nguyễn Hải Long and Nguyễn Đình Bắc to increase attacking pressure. Nevertheless, Nepal’s resilient defense made it difficult for Vietnam to find a second goal. Makan Bola praised Vietnam’s ability to maintain a solid game plan, not allowing the opponent any dangerous counterattack opportunities.

Makan Bola concluded that Vietnam achieved its goal by securing all 3 points, remaining second in Group F with 9 points, just 3 points behind Malaysia, thus exerting significant pressure on them. Nepal remains without points after 4 matches.