The Australian’s first round acted as a learning curve after the Matildas were stifled by South Korea’s “parked bus” method of play.

Coach Alen Stajcic has remained positive, stating in the post-game press conference that his team will take steps to adapt to this style of play for future games.

Vietnam opened their Asian Cup campaign with a 3-1 loss against reigning Asian Cup winners Japan, so they will need nothing less than a win if they hope to qualify for the 2019 World Cup.

Nicknamed the “Golden Girls,” Vietnam has steadily grown to become serious contenders in international football, taking home gold three times since 2003.

LAST TIME THEY MET

Last time Australia and Vietnam met was at the 2016 Olympic Games Qualifiers where the Matildas took home the win with a dominant final score of 9-0.

Prior to this, Australia and Vietnam have faced off five times since 2008, with Australia bagging the win each time and scores varying anywhere from 1-0 to 11-0.

KEY PLAYER AUSTRALIA: MICHELLE HEYMAN

Michelle Heyman boasts an impressive total of five goals against Vietnam, with three of them coming in the form of a hat-trick when the teams met at the 2015 World Cup.

If Heyman is able to produce the same performance, Australia should be able to capitalise, earn their three points and be that much closer to the finals.