Vietnam took a significant step toward winning the 2026 ASEAN Cup by defeating Thailand 2-0 in the first leg of the final held in Bangkok. Coach Kim Sang-sik's strategic substitutions led to goals from Nguyen Hai Long and Nguyen Quang Hai in the second half, marking him as the most successful coach against Thailand.
According to local media, including Bongda.com, the Vietnamese national team triumphed over Thailand at the Rajamangala Stadium on August 22. Nguyen Hai Long scored the opening goal in the 62nd minute, followed by an additional goal from Nguyen Quang Hai just seven minutes later.
This victory marks Kim's third official win against Thailand as the head coach of Vietnam, all of which occurred in the AFF Cup finals. Previously, he led Vietnam to victories in the 2024 AFF Cup finals, winning the first leg 2-1 and the second leg 3-2.
The win is also historically significant for the Vietnamese national team. Since returning to the international stage in 1991, previous coaches like Alfred Riedl, Enrique Calisto, and Park Hang-seo each secured only one victory against Thailand. With this win, Kim has set the record for the most wins against Thailand.
Substitutions Prove Decisive as Vietnam Aims for Back-to-Back Titles
The turning point in the match was Kim's substitutions at the start of the second half. He replaced Nguyen Suan Son and Le Pham Thanh Long with Hai Long and Quang Hai, who both scored within 20 minutes of their introduction, sealing the victory.
In the first half, Thailand posed a significant threat. Vietnam created an early opportunity with a long-range shot from Suan Son, while Thailand's Seksan Ratree hit the crossbar in the 30th minute. Just before halftime, Yochakorn Burapha had a one-on-one chance with the goalkeeper but missed the target, leaving the score at 0-0.
In the second half, Vietnam took control of the match. Hai Long found the net with a powerful shot after receiving a pass from Nguyen Dinh Bac in the 62nd minute. Quang Hai added the second goal during a quick counterattack seven minutes later. Both substitutes made an immediate impact, confirming Kim's tactical acumen.
Despite conceding two goals, Thailand increased their attacking efforts but failed to penetrate Vietnam's defense. Vietnam even created additional chances, with Dinh Bac's long-range shot hitting the crossbar in the 89th minute.
Eyes on the Second Leg in Hanoi
Thailand now faces significant pressure heading into the second leg of the final after losing 0-2 at home. Following the match, fans expressed their dissatisfaction with the team's performance on the Thai Football Association's official social media, calling for the return of star player Chanathip Songkrasin and demanding a 3-0 victory in the away match against Vietnam.
Criticism of the team's performance was harsh, with some fans stating, "If they play like this, there's no need for a broadcast for fans to watch," while others remarked that the team had already lost before stepping onto the field. Although Thailand created some threatening moments in the first half, they failed to capitalize on their chances, and in the second half, they were overwhelmed by Vietnam's counterattacks.
However, some analysts noted that the match was not entirely one-sided. Thailand had opportunities to score in the first half but could not finish, while Vietnam effectively converted their chances following the substitutions. Ultimately, the match was decided by the ability to finish chances.
Vietnam will carry a two-goal lead into the second leg of the final, scheduled for August 26 at 8 PM at My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi. As the reigning champions from the 2024 tournament, Vietnam aims to secure back-to-back titles.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.