Vietnam took a first half lead through Doan Van Hau before second half efforts by Do Hung Dung and Van Hau again sealed a historic win for the Golden Dragons, with the gold being their first since South Vietnam won in 1959.

Meanwhile, in the bronze play-off between Myanmar and Cambodia, the pulsating tie ended 2-2 after 90 minutes, with Cambodia captain Keo Sokpheng's spot-kick hitting the upright as Myanmar won the shoot-out 5-4.

Hai Yen Pham's goal in the third minute of extra-time gave Vietnam their sixth Sea Games gold medal, one more than Thailand with the two nations the only wons to have won the regional title.

Earlier, Myanmar took the bronze after coming from behind to defeat hosts Philippines 2-1 in the play-off.

Indonesia needed extra time to overcome a fighting Myanmar 4-2 while Vietnam strolled to a 4-0 win over surprise semi-finalists Cambodia.

Whoever wins the gold medal in Tuesday's final will end a long wait - Indonesia were last champions in 1991 while Vietnam - then South Vietnam - won the inaugural edition in 1959.

Indonesia defeated Laos to take second spot in the group on 12 points, one behind Vietnam but, crucially, two more than Thailand.

Vietnam will play Cambodia in the semi-finals while Indonesia will meet Group A winners Myanmar on Saturday.

Cambodia, having never won a medal in men's football at the SEA Games, claimed their spot in the knockout stage as Group A runners-up with seven points to their name, while it was a heartbreak ending for Philippines, who were edged out on goal difference despite their 3-1 win.

Either Indonesia or Thailand will accompany Vietnam into the semi-finals, with their fate to be decided in Thursday's final round of matches.

Both are on nine points, with Indonesia defeating Brunei Darussalam 8-0 on Tuesday and Thailand beating Singapore Laos 2-0.

Thailand will play Vietnam in their final tie while Indonesia will meet Laos.

Host nation Philippines salvaged a 1-1 draw with Cambodia, courtesy of Dennis Chung's late goal, while Malaysia came from a goal down to salvage a point against Myanmar.

Vietnam, meanwhile, sent a warning of their gold medal intentions by beating Brunei Darussalam 6-0.