In the friendly match against Vietnam Coal and Minerals on the afternoon of July 24, coach Mai Duc Chung deployed a starting lineup with many key players such as goalkeeper Khong Thi Hang, Chuong Thi Kieu, Diem My, Thu Thao and Tran Thi Thu Bich Thuy, Van Su, Duong Thi Van, Thai Thi Thao and Nguyen Thi Van and captain Huynh Nhu.
Right from the start of the match, the Vietnam women's team controlled the game. In the 24th minute, Huynh Nhu crossed the ball conveniently for Bich Thuy to jump high and head the ball to score the opening goal. Five minutes later, it was still Huynh Nhu with an assist from the right wing, this time Ngan Thi Van Su headed the ball that the opposing team's goalkeeper could not catch, raising the score to 2-0.
The Vietnam Coal and Mineral Club quickly responded with a beautiful long-range shot by Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang in the 30th minute, shortening the gap to 1-2. After that, coach Mai Duc Chung launched a series of personnel changes in the second half to test the force.
In the 52nd minute, striker Pham Hai Yen came on as a substitute to raise the score to 3-1 after a dangerous shot from outside the penalty area. However, the opponent continued to shorten the score after Tran Nhat Lan's goal in the 58th minute. Although the two teams created a few more notable opportunities, the score of 3-2 was kept unchanged until the end of the match.
The victory over Vietnam Coal and Minerals was an important rehearsal for the Vietnam women's team before entering the official tournaments.
Through this match, Mr. Mai Duc Chung had more data to evaluate the quality of the squad and make appropriate adjustments for the journey ahead.
