(VOVWORLD) -Vietnam football team, the only team in Southeast Asia, advanced to the quarterfinals of the AFC Asian Cup 2019 after defeating Jordan 4-2 on penalties in Round of 16 on Sunday evening in the United Arab Emirates.
Both teams finished the official 90 minutes and 30 minutes of extra time with a 1-1 draw. After the dreaded penalty shootout, Vietnam prevailed 4-2 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc applauded the Vietnamese players for their confidence, bravery, and dedication, shown in the impressive, brilliant match to win a ticket to the quarterfinals. Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyen Ngoc Thien sent a congratulatory letter to the national squad, praising the team’s solidarity, strong will, courage, and sound tactics, which have elated millions of fans. The Ministry will award 1 billion VND (43,000 USD) to the Vietnamese players. 5 companies each also announced a cash reward worth 1 billion VND to the team.
In the quarterfinals, on Thursday, Vietnam will play with the winner between Japan and Saudi Arabia who are scheduled to compete on Monday.