Along with announcing the bonus, the VFF president stressed that Vietnam have never won the ASEAN Cup in two consecutive editions, a feat previously achieved by Thailand and Singapore. The Golden Star Warriors must therefore give everything they have to accomplish that goal.

Earlier, Vietnam received VND1.5 billion (about $57,000) in bonuses from the VFF and sponsors after their 2-0 victory over Malaysia in the second leg of the semifinal at My Dinh Stadium. Dinh Bac and his teammates were also awarded VND3.5 billion (about $133,000) after going unbeaten in the group stage and defeating Malaysia 2-0 in the first leg of the semifinal.

In addition, businessman Nguyen Duc Thuy, widely known as Bau Thuy, personally awarded the national team VND4 billion (about $152,000) ahead of the two final matches. The money was transferred directly to the accounts of Kim Sang Sik and his players as a timely boost ahead of the decisive encounters.

That means the Golden Star Warriors have so far received more than VND10 billion (around $380,000). That figure is certain to rise considerably if Vietnam defeat Thailand in the second leg of the final on home soil and successfully defend their ASEAN Cup crown.

Should they win the championship, Vietnam will also receive $300,000 in prize money from the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF), equivalent to more than VND7 billion. Including all the bonuses, Kim Sang Sik’s team could collect a total of around VND20 billion, or roughly $760,000.

The financial rewards provide another source of encouragement and motivation for the Vietnamese players. But Quang Hai and his teammates still face what is expected to be a fiercely contested second leg, with Thailand having nothing left to lose.

Vietnam hold a two-goal advantage and will play at home, but they cannot afford to lose focus against a Thailand side that has never been an easy opponent. Kim Sang Sik and his coaching staff must also help the players recover as quickly as possible and ensure they are ready for another demanding 90 minutes against the War Elephants.

The second leg of the 2026 ASEAN Cup final between Vietnam and Thailand kicks off at 8 p.m. on August 26 at My Dinh Stadium.

Dai Nam