Vietnam Defeats Thailand in ASEAN Championship Final Second Leg Football Match

Monday, 6 January 2025, 2:14

Bangkok-

The ASEAN Championship Final concluded tonight with Vietnam defeating Thailand in a thrilling second leg match at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, securing the title for the third time in their history.

First Half:

The game started with both teams showing immense determination. Vietnam, holding a 2-1 lead from the first leg, scored early through Phạm Tuấn Hải in the 8th minute, making it 1-0 on the night and 3-1 on aggregate. Thailand responded quickly, with Ben Davis finding the net in the 28th minute, leveling the score at 1-1 and bringing the aggregate to 3-2. The first half ended with Vietnam still in the lead but with the match very much in the balance.

Second Half:

The intensity continued into the second half, with Thailand pushing hard for an equalizer. Supachok Sarachart scored a stunning long-range goal in the 64th minute, tying the match on the night at 2-2, and making the aggregate score 3-3. However, drama unfolded in the 74th minute when Pomphan was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving Thailand with 10 men.

Vietnam capitalized on their numerical advantage. An own goal by Pansa Hemviboon in the 82nd minute gave Vietnam a 3-2 lead on the night, and a 4-3 lead on aggregate. The match was extended by significant stoppage time due to several interruptions, including a controversial delay involving a throw-in and an injury. In the 20th minute of added time, Nguyen Hai Long scored to seal the victory, making the final score 3-2 on the night and 5-3 on aggregate.

Post-Match:

Vietnam’s triumph was celebrated across the nation, with fans taking to the streets in jubilation, marking their first win over Thailand on Thai soil in 27 years. The match was a testament to both teams’ resilience and tactical prowess, with Vietnam’s strategic play and Thailand’s fighting spirit on display. Both teams had moments of brilliance, but Vietnam’s ability to exploit their one-man advantage in the latter stages proved decisive.

Final Score:

Vietnam 3 – Thailand 2 (Aggregate: 5-3)