Indonesian media: 'Even a perfect Australia was defeated by Vietnam'

Indonesian press emphasized Australia U17's "perfect" performance after the group stage, yet it became the backdrop for Vietnam's remarkable win in the ASEAN U17 semifinals.

The ASEAN U17 semifinal between Vietnam U17 and Australia U17 at Gelora Delta Stadium (Sidoarjo) on April 22 evening unfolded dramatically. Both teams entered the match with strong form after impressive group stage results, especially Australia—who had not conceded and demonstrated superior strength.

According to Superball Indonesia's assessment, “Australia was the Group C champion, achieving a flawless record (9 points) over three matches.” However, this semifinal revealed a different reality, as Vietnam U17's efficiency and resilience proved decisive.

From the start, Australia pushed high and exerted strong pressure, while Vietnam patiently defended, awaiting counterattack opportunities. In the 9th minute, Trong Đại Nhân had a chance but his shot lacked sufficient difficulty. Minutes later, Australia capitalized better with Luke Becvinovski's powerful left-footed strike, opening the scoring.

In the 38th minute, Vietnam nearly received a penalty after contact with Oliver James O'Carroll, but VAR intervened and overturned the decision. Nevertheless, toward the end of the first half, VAR provided another opportunity by confirming Marcus Jovan-Tony Savic's foul. From the penalty spot, Đại Nhân's shot hit the post, but Nguyễn Mạnh Cường timely headed in to equalize 1-1.

Entering the second half, the game opened up with continuous exchanges. Australia continued creating chances but lacked sharpness in finishing. In the 59th minute, from a set-piece situation, Nguyễn Lực utilized a precise cross to score, helping Vietnam turn the tide.

In the final minutes, Australia launched a full-force attack seeking an equalizer. Corey Zachary Da Cruz had a clear opportunity inside the box but couldn't beat Vietnam's goalkeeper. The situation worsened as they played with a man disadvantage after a red card, causing hopes of reversal to fade.

Ultimately, Vietnam U17 achieved a convincing 2-1 victory. This result not only sends Vietnam's young players to the final against Malaysia but also demonstrates that even a team considered "perfect" like Australia can be defeated by the resilience and effectiveness of a Southeast Asian representative.