Yangon (AFP) – A late goal by Nguyen Trong Hoang gave Vietnam a narrow victory over Malaysia in the Suzuki Cup on Wednesday, putting his side in poll position to make the semi-finals.

The forward, a rising star in Vietnam’s domestic league, secured his country’s second win in three days on 80 minutes when he danced between two Malaysian defenders to slot home.

His goal was just rewards for an impressive performance and puts Vietnam at the top of Group B with six points.

They are all but assured of a semi-final place after beating co-hosts Myanmar 1-2 on Sunday.

Myanmar take on Cambodia later Wednesday.

It is a must-win game if they are to ensure their fate remains in their own hands ahead of Saturday’s final group matches.

In Group A’s Tuesday ties, Thailand secured a place in the last four after beating Singapore 1-0 in Manila.