VietNamNet Bridge - Hosts Vietnam, as the defending champions, surpassed their first barrier after beating Myanmar 7-1 in their group B opener at the Southeast Asian Football Championship, Suzuki Cup, in Hanoi on December 2.

Vietnamese players staged a superb pressing style of playing, especially right after losing the ball, and created much pressure to push the visitors down to a defensive and low formation during the game.

After stirring up gales of attacks right after the opening whistle, Vietnam rose up to a 1-0 lead just 12 minutes into the game after a blast by striker Anh Duc, who later found another goal in the 67th minute.

But the joy lasted for just three minutes when Myanmar launched their first attack of the game and Han Win Aung leveled it 1-1.

Vietnam still upheld their attacking formation and regained their lead again in the 30th minute. From a free kick just 18 meters away from the Myanmar goal, Minh Phuong easily curled a shot, driving the ball flying over the rival defensive barrier before diving down to the right corner.

The score remained to the break time.

In the second half, Vietnam stunned the rivals with five more games to seal their 7-1 victory.

Anh Duc and substitute Trong Hoang each scored two goals. The others were for Trong Hoang and Tan Tai.

In the other game in group B, the Philippines held Singapore to a 1-1 tie.

Hosts Vietnam will take on the Philippines in the second matchday on December 5, while Myanmar to face Singapore.

Source: Tuoi Tre