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| Photo Courtesy from sinarharian.com.my |
Indonesia scored last gasp equaliser to earn a point in 2-2 draw to the only-one underdog of the tournament, Laos. Indonesia was in good spirit in the early minute of the match, with delightful run from 'Indonesian Messi', Andik Vermansyah and several clear-cut chances from Irfan Bachdim in which should have made Indonesia up two or three goals, with Laos goalkeeper's nervous performances went unpunished. But the Indonesia's favour was soon against them in the 30th minute after Indonesian goalkeeper, Endra Prasetya was sent off after made a horrendous tackle to the Laos player in the penalty area which subsequently have to go off because of injury and earn a penalty that is well-taken by Khampeng Sayavutthi. With down to 10 men, Indonesia were expected to struggle in the whole match, but was fortunate enough after a seemingly questionable calls from match officials after Laos player, Sopha Saysana were sent off in 34th minute, though the midfielder were deemed to be an unintentional foul over Andik Vermansyah. Indonesia's hard work were paid off eventually after Maitimo headed high towards Laos goal, to make the match even at 1-1 just before half time. The script for second half were almost the same, with Indonesia unable to turn chances into goals, it was Laos that capitalise Indonesia's profligacy to take the lead once again, this time through Keoviengphet Liththideth in the 80th minute. When it was almost certain that Laos will take all three precious point, Vendry Mofu scored a much-needed equaliser to avoid from suffering first defeat in the tournament. Indonesia will be the happier side to earn a point while Laos will be wondering how they could concede a last minute goal, when they have a chance to win the match. Both Indonesia and Laos though, will meet tougher opponent, Indonesia will meet the three-time champions Singapore while Laos is up against the defending champion Malaysia, Wednesday, 28 November 2012, at Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
