AFF Suzuki Cup wrap: Thailand send Vietnam packing

Thailand marched into the semi-finals of the AFF Suzuki Cup following a 3-1 victory over Vietnam on Friday.

Two goals from striker Kirati Keawsombut helped the three-time champions top Group A on nine points and send Vietnam crashing out of the competition.

Vietnam needed a surprise away win to salvage any hope of qualifying for the semi-finals but it did not start as Keawsombut found himself in space for an easy tap in for Thailand.

The PTT Rayong striker then doubled their lead just past the hour mark, heading home emphatically.

Vietnam went in search of an equaliser and with 18 minutes still to play they gave themselves hope.

Nguyen van Quyet was given far too much room by the Thai defence and he made no mistake with his finish.

However, with eight minutes remaining the game was over as a contest after Nguyen Gia Tu diverted the ball into his own net.

The resulted ensured Thailand qualified for the semi-finals as group winners.

Thailand will play the second placed team in Group B in the semi-finals and joining them will be the Philippines, who recorded a comfortable 2-0 win against Myanmar.

Second-half goals from Philip Younghusband and Angel Guirado guided the Philippines safely through to their second successive semi-final.

The win sees the Philippines secure second place in Group A behind Thailand and they will face the winners of group B.