ESPN highlights a historic comeback

ESPN’s headline proclaimed: “Vietnam dethrones Thailand in a thrilling final.”

Journalist Gabriel Tan described the match as “a nail-biting encounter at Rajamangala Stadium,” where Hai Long’s decisive goal in the 20th minute of stoppage time sealed Vietnam’s 3-2 win.

Tan noted that Vietnam’s third ASEAN Cup title was particularly sweet, as it avenged their loss to Thailand in the final two years ago.

Despite being considered strong contenders before the tournament, Vietnam faced significant challenges en route to their victory.

Midway through the second leg of the final, star forward Nguyen Xuan Son suffered a severe injury and had to leave the pitch. Shortly after, Thailand took a 2-1 lead with a controversial goal by Supachok, which ESPN described as lacking sportsmanship.

However, ESPN commended Vietnam for their composure and strategic brilliance.

“The Vietnamese players shed their pressure and courageously adapted to the situation, ultimately clinching victory through the brilliance of Tuan Hai and Hai Long,” ESPN concluded.

Highlighting the significance of this win, ESPN reminded readers that Thailand had only lost once before in the ASEAN Cup, during the first leg of the 2008 final, also against Vietnam.

Sixteen years later, Vietnam now boasts three ASEAN Cup titles.

Reuters focuses on key moments

Reuters credited Vietnam’s last-minute goals for securing the dramatic victory.

The news agency emphasized the red card shown to Thailand’s Weerathep as the turning point in the match: “Tensions escalated after Supachok’s controversial goal, but the dynamics shifted completely when Weerathep received his second yellow card for a foul on Vu Van Thanh.”

With the numerical advantage, Vietnam capitalized quickly. Tuan Hai’s effort forced Pansa into an own goal, followed by Hai Long’s late strike to seal the title.

Vietnam’s resilience and tactical adjustments earned them widespread admiration, making this ASEAN Cup victory a memorable one for fans and players alike.

An Nhi