HANOI, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam suffered a 1-0 loss against visitors Oman here on Thursday in their last home game in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Approaching the game slowly and focusing on defense, both teams went into the break with few chances created after the first 45 minutes. In the second half, Vietnam pushed forward and earned several free kicks, but none were converted as the most dangerous ones were saved by keeper Al-Mukhaini.
Vietnam appealed for a penalty after the ball hit the hand of an Omani defender in the 58th minute, but the referee denied it after a VAR check.
Despite having fewer chances, Oman scored the game's only goal as Khalid Al-Hajri headed in a corner in the 65th minute.
Vietnam had lost 3-1 to Oman in their first encounter in October last year, despite scoring first.
After nine games in the final round of the Asian qualifiers, Oman rank fourth with 11 points with three wins, two draws, and four losses, while Vietnam are rooted to the bottom after eight defeats and one win. Neither team can still qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. ■
