Coach Hoang Anh Tuan (Photo: Vietnam Football Federation)

Vietnam just needed a1-0 win over Cambodia in the final Group B game to make semi-finals, butthey lost to the underdogs 1-2 at Thong Nhat Stadium.

It was the firsttime Vietnam has been defeated by Cambodia at any junior or senior levelin an official championship.

The hosts' only goalcame in extra time through striker Nguyen Kim Nhat.

Captain SiengChanthea and Thy Lieng scored for the visitors in the second half.

It was the third time ina row Vietnam's U18s were ousted from the regional tournament.

Tuan said in thepost-match conference that he could make no excuses for the loss.

"Welost and were disqualified," said Tuan. "My players were notreally nervous in this match but they were eager to score a goaland it caused many problems. I can take responsibility for thedefeat."

"It is youthfootball and players still have many chances ahead," he added. "Theyneed time to practise more and sharpen their skills."

Australia made thesemi-finals in style after trouncing Singapore 5-0. Malaysia lost 0-1 toThailand but still qualified as the second-placed team.