Sleepless night in HCM City as fans cheer Vietnam’s ASEAN Cup triumph
With flags flying and drums beating, Ho Chi Minh City fans took to the streets to celebrate Vietnam’s 2-1 win against Thailand, turning the city into a sea of red and gold.
The streets of Ho Chi Minh City were alive with jubilation on the night of January 2 as hundreds of football fans celebrated Vietnam’s 2-1 victory over Thailand in the first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 final.
Throughout the city, the Vietnamese flag flew high, waved proudly by fans who gathered in droves to express their elation. The area around the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee headquarters and Nguyen Hue pedestrian street became the focal point of celebrations, with crowds chanting "Vietnam champions!" amid the sound of horns and drums.
Xuan Tinh, a fan from Binh Thanh District, exclaimed, "Vietnam champions!" His voice was lost in the chorus of joyful cheers.
The streets of Nguyen Hue and Le Loi were packed with people, with laughter and excitement reverberating through the night. Some fans brought quirky props like conical hats and brooms, adding a uniquely Vietnamese flavor to the festivities.
One foreign tourist joined in, shouting in unison with the crowd. “The atmosphere here is electrifying. I love Vietnam,” he shared, visibly moved by the infectious energy.
The festive atmosphere was punctuated by the creative ways fans expressed their joy. Many showed up with makeshift instruments like pots and pans, while others donned eye-catching costumes.
Earlier in the evening, the city was abuzz as people gathered in cafés, restaurants, and even roadside stalls to watch the game. Drivers and street vendors paused to catch each moment of the match. Fans erupted in celebration when Xuan Son’s goals secured Vietnam’s hard-fought victory, setting the stage for a promising second-leg finale.
This triumph, a source of pride and joy for the nation, promises a sleepless night for fans across Ho Chi Minh City.
Nguyen Hue & Dao Phuong