NEW DELHI: Vanuatu concluded their Intercontinental Cup campaign on a positive note with a 1-0 victory over Mongolia at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
The decisive goal came early in the second half when Mongolia's Gantuya Gantogtokh inadvertently scored an own goal while trying to clear the ball. Vanuatu's Godin Tenene had dribbled past Mongolian defenders from the left flank and delivered a cross into the penalty box.
Following the goal, Mongolia pushed forward in search of an equaliser but failed to convert their chances.
Vanuatu finished the tournament with three points from three matches, while Mongolia only managed to secure one point from their draw against Lebanon. The result also ensured Lebanon's spot in the final against India, scheduled for Sunday.
Both teams displayed attacking football throughout the match, with several opportunities created at both ends. In the 10th minute, Mongolia had a chance to take the lead through Ganbold Ganbayar's shot, but it was saved comfortably by Vanuatu goalkeeper Massing Kalotang.
Vanuatu responded with a dangerous attack in the 16th minute, but Jordy Tasip's attempt missed the target.
Mongolia had another golden opportunity in the 36th minute when Baatartsogt Namsrai set up Ganbayar inside the box, but the shot lacked power and was easily saved.
Just before halftime, Vanuatu came close to scoring when Tasip's shot was parried away by Mongolian goalkeeper Enkhtaivan Munkh-Erdene.
In the first half, Vanuatu had more possession and recorded more shots on target than Mongolia.
The match showcased end-to-end football and was evenly contested between the two sides.
