Vietnam entered the tournament as clear favorites against Timor-Leste and lived up to expectations with a comfortable victory in their Group A opener.

The standout performer was Hoang Cong Hau, who struck in the 2nd, 83rd and first minute of stoppage time to complete a memorable hat-trick and hand coach Yutaka Ikeuchi's side an ideal start to the competition.

Vietnam needed only two minutes to break the deadlock. Duc Vu threaded a precise through ball into the penalty area, allowing Cong Hau to race clear before calmly touching the ball past the Timor-Leste goalkeeper and into the net.

Vietnam continued to dominate possession and create chances throughout the first half. The young striker came close to doubling the lead in the 35th minute when another well-worked move involving Duc Vu ended with his effort striking the post.

The match became more difficult after the break as hot weather conditions slowed the tempo and Timor-Leste attempted to launch counterattacks. However, Vietnam remained in control and eventually found the breakthrough they had been searching for.

In the 83rd minute, Cong Hau produced the goal of the match. Meeting a cross from the right flank, he adjusted his body brilliantly before firing a low volley into the net to make it 2-0.

The forward completed his hat-trick in stoppage time after breaking through the defense and finishing confidently into the far corner to seal a 3-0 victory.

Despite the convincing scoreline, Timor-Leste created several dangerous moments and tested goalkeeper Xuan Tin on multiple occasions. The Vietnamese goalkeeper responded with a number of important saves to preserve the clean sheet.

The victory gives Vietnam a positive start in what promises to be a challenging group that also includes hosts Indonesia and Myanmar.

Who is Hoang Cong Hau?

Born in 2007 in Hai Phong, Hoang Cong Hau is regarded as one of the most promising young forwards in Vietnamese football.

He emerged from the youth development system of the former Hai Duong Provincial Sports Training and Competition Center before joining The Cong Viettel, one of the country's leading football academies.

Cong Hau first attracted national attention at the 2023 National U17 Championship, where he played a pivotal role for The Cong Viettel U17 team. In the final against Ha Tinh, he scored crucial goals that helped his side secure a 4-2 victory and lift the championship trophy.

Although he does not possess the physical profile typically associated with a traditional center forward, the young striker is highly regarded by coaches and scouts for his intelligent movement, technical ability, quick acceleration in tight spaces and natural goalscoring instincts.

Given an opportunity to start for Vietnam U19 in the opening match of the ASEAN U19 Championship, Cong Hau delivered a performance that exceeded expectations. His hat-trick not only secured three points for his team but also highlighted his growing reputation as one of the country's brightest attacking prospects.

With the tournament still in its early stages, Vietnam will be hoping their new star can continue his impressive form as they pursue regional success.

Match facts

Vietnam U19 3-0 Timor-Leste U19

Goals: Hoang Cong Hau (2', 83', 90'+1)

Vietnam U19 starting lineup: Xuan Tin, Tan Dung, Minh Hoi, Hong Phong, Quoc Khanh, Tan Minh, Duy Khang, Van Khanh, Duc Vu, Quoc Hoa, Cong Hau.

Dai Nam - Thien Binh