Vietnam (in red) have made it through to the final round of the World Cup qualifiers for the first time. (Photo: AFC)   

NDO – Vietnam have secured their maiden progression into the final round of the World Cup Asian qualifiers as one of the four best group runners-up despite conceding a 2-3 defeat against the United Arab Emirates in their last Group G match on June 15.

> Preview: Vietnam on the verge of making history

The win meant UAE dethroned Vietnam from the top spot of Group G on the final day to reach the final round of the Asian qualifiers for the second time running while there was joy for Vietnam despite the defeat as they advanced for the first time in their history.

The Golden Star Warriors settled for second place in Group G stage with 17 points, one behind leaders UAE and five points clear of third-placed Malaysia, who edged past Thailand with a score of 1-0 on the same day.

Ali Hassan opened the scoring for the UAE after 32 minutes with Ramadan lofting the ball to Ali Hassan who shot past goalkeeper Bui Tan Truong to put the hosts in front.

Ali Mabkhout made it 2-0 by converting a penalty eight minutes later after goalie Tan Truong fouled on Abdullah Al-Naqbi in the box.

In the second half, Vietnam intensified their attacks seeking to pull back a goal. However, their ambition was dealt a big blow in the 50^th minute as Khamees added a third goal for the hosts.

Vietnam settle for second place in Group G. (Photo: AFC)

VAN TOAN