Vietnam triumphed 2-1 over Thailand in the first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 final at Viet Tri Stadium. Striker Xuan Son delivered a stellar performance, scoring both goals for Vietnam, giving the team a significant advantage ahead of the second leg in Bangkok.

Key moments in the match

The match started with Thailand playing aggressively, but Vietnam quickly gained control. In the 60th minute, Xuan Son broke the deadlock with a powerful header following a perfectly placed cross from Van Thanh.

Vietnam doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Xuan Son intercepted the ball at midfield, made a stunning solo run, and sent a precise shot into the far corner, leaving Thai goalkeeper Khammai helpless.

Thailand narrowed the gap in the 82nd minute. Suphanat’s cross found Aukkee, who headed the ball into the net to make it 2-1. Despite Thailand’s late pressure, including a free kick that hit the crossbar, Vietnam’s defense held strong to secure the win.

Second-half substitutions and tactical changes

Coach Kim Sang Sik made strategic adjustments at halftime, bringing on Quang Hai for Vi Hao. This substitution energized Vietnam’s midfield, with Quang Hai playing a key role in creating chances for his teammates.

Thailand also made changes, introducing Thitathon to bolster their attack, but Vietnam’s defensive line, led by Thanh Chung and Tien Dung, effectively neutralized most threats.

This victory gives Vietnam a crucial edge in the two-legged final, but Thailand’s away goal means the second leg in Bangkok will be decisive.

Coach Kim Sang Sik emphasized the importance of staying focused, stating, “We’ve taken an important step, but the job is not finished. Thailand is a strong team, and we must prepare for a tough match in Bangkok.”

Match highlights

Goals: Vietnam: Xuan Son (60’, 73’); Thailand: Aukkee (82’)

Lineups:

Vietnam: Dinh Trieu, Tien Dung, Thanh Chung, Xuan Manh, Van Vi (Tien Anh 72’), Ngoc Tan, Hoang Duc (Tien Linh 90’+6), Van Thanh (Hai Long 87’), Ngoc Quang (Duy Manh 87’), Vi Hao (Quang Hai 46’), Xuan Son.

Thailand: Khammai, Pansa, Aukkee, Mickelson (Thitathon 46’), Suphanan, Weiderjoe, Ekanit, Akarapong (Weerathep 45’+3), James Davis, Ratree, Patrik Gustavsson.

Key moments

60’: Xuan Son broke the deadlock with a powerful header from a cross by Van Thanh, putting Vietnam ahead 1-0.

73’: The striker doubled the lead with a stunning solo effort, stealing the ball at midfield and firing a precise shot into the far corner, leaving Thai goalkeeper Khammai helpless.

82’: Thailand narrowed the gap with a header by Aukkee following a well-placed cross from Suphanat.
Vietnam held off Thailand’s late attacks, including a dangerous free kick that struck the crossbar, to secure a vital win.

The second leg of the final will take place in Bangkok in three days. Vietnam’s advantage positions them well to clinch the ASEAN Cup 2024 title, but Thailand’s away goal adds pressure for a strong defensive performance.

Dai Nam