Both teams began cautiously, but Chinese Taipei quickly showed greater effectiveness in pressing and competing for possession.

In the 15th minute, Su Yu-hsuan beat Vietnam’s offside trap and raced into the penalty area before finishing past goalkeeper Kim Thanh to open the scoring.

Vietnam pushed higher up the pitch after conceding but struggled to create clear attacking opportunities.

Thu Thuong came close to an equaliser in the 36th minute, heading Thu Xuan’s corner against the post.

Vietnam improved after the break and put their opponents under greater pressure.

However, Chinese Taipei doubled their advantage in the 81st minute when Wakabayashi Minori capitalised on a corner to make it 2-0.

Thanh Nha gave Vietnam renewed hope four minutes later, scoring from Vu Thi Hoa’s cross to cut the deficit to 2-1.

Vietnam continued to push for an equaliser but could not find another goal and were forced to accept defeat in their opening Group E match.

The result leaves coach Hoang Van Phuc’s side facing a difficult task in their remaining group matches against hosts Japan on September 17 and Southeast Asian rivals Thailand on September 21.

Goals

Vietnam: Thanh Nha (85’)

Chinese Taipei: Su Yu-hsuan (15’), Wakabayashi Minori (81’)

Starting lineups

Vietnam: Kim Thanh, Thu Huong, Nguyen Thi Hoa, Thai Thi Thao (Duong Thi Van 28’), Diem My, Thu Xuan, Cu Thi Huynh Nhu, Bich Thuy (Minh Chuyen), Thanh Nha, Van Su, Hai Yen.

Chinese Taipei: Wang Yu Ting, Chang Chi Lan, Liao Jie Ning, Wakabayashi Minori, Tanaka Maho, Hsu Yi Yun, Lin Hsin Hui, Chen Jin Wen, Su Yu-hsuan, Chen Ying Hui, Huang Ke Sin.

Thien Binh