Pakistan kicked off their Asian games campaign with a 3-0 defeat to Vietnam. 

Pakistan started the game defending well and going for the counter attacks. Vietnam scored midway through the second half. Late in the second half Vietnam doubled their lead. Vietnam missed a a great chance when they smashed the penalty against the bar at the end of the first half. 

Pakistan showed more promise at the second half. Riaz Mohamed was booked early on. Vietnam had the chance to extend their lead only for Pakistan goalkeeper Saqib Hanif to stop them from a penalty kick. Vietnam killed the resilient opponent in the 72nd minute with an excellent strike from Phuong to the top corner of the net from ourside the penalty box.

Pakistan's next game is against Japan on the 16th while Vietnam plays Pakistan's next opponent Nepal.

After the Asian games, Pakistan will take part in the SAFF Suzuki Cup after a long absence. Pakistan is drawn in the same group as hosts Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan

Photo: VNExpress