The Philippine Malditas fell short against Vietnam, 2-0, in the 2019 South East Asian Games women's football tournament semi-finals at the Biñan Football Stadium on Thursday evening.
Heavily favored Vietnam showcased their class in the first half, dominating the Philippines in terms of attempts and possession. As per in-game statistics, the Vietnamese held 73 percent of the possession and took six shots compared to the Philippines' two.
Despite the Filipinas being on the back foot for most of the game, they did fashion one of the more dangerous opportunities in the opening 45 minutes. Quinley Quezada found space inside the Vietnam box but drilled her header straight to the keeper.
The second half saw more of the same play from the two teams, with Vietnam trying to break down a stubborn Malditas team.
Vietnam finally found an opener after catching the Malditas on the break in the 60th minutes. Thai Thi Thao swept in the first goal of the game after a mistimed strike from Huynj Nhu fell her way.
The Filipinas almost struck back just four minutes after when keeper Than Thi Kim Thanh was forced to tip over a Hali Long effort from long range. The resulting corner was also duly dealt with by the Vietnamese shot stopper.
The Philippines also had a goal disallowed after Alisha Del Campo was adjudged to be offside prior to her goal-bound header.
With the Philippines pushing forward, the Vietnamese secured their insurance goal in the 84th minute to virtually book their place in the finals. Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung capped off another incisive Vietnam attack on the counter.
Time ran out on the Malditas, who continued to push for a goal in the final minutes to worry the visitors. But there was no goal to be had, as the Filipinas now look to still finish in the podium after the upcoming bronze medal match.
The Philippine Malditas will have a re-match with Myanmar in the bronze medal match on Sunday. The two sides battled to a goalless draw last week.