Vietnam emerged victorious in an exhilarating ASEAN Cup final, defeating Thailand 3-2 in the second leg and clinching the championship with a 5-3 aggregate score across two matches.
The decisive moment came in stoppage time when Thailand’s goalkeeper, Khemmai, joined his team’s attack in a desperate attempt to equalize. However, Vietnam regained possession, and Nguyen Hai Long capitalized on the unguarded net, sending the ball rolling in from midfield. The goal sealed Vietnam’s victory in dramatic fashion.
Earlier in the match, Pham Tuan Hai played a pivotal role, scoring Vietnam’s opening goal after skillfully breaking Thailand’s defensive line and chipping the ball over goalkeeper Khemmai. Thailand responded with an equalizer from Ben Davies after a defensive error by Ngoc Tan, bringing the aggregate score to 3-2.
In a tense second half, Tuan Hai struck again with a shot that deflected off Pansa Hemviboon and found the net, giving Vietnam a 4-3 aggregate lead. Thailand’s chances diminished further when midfielder Pomphan was sent off after receiving his second yellow card.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Thailand pressed aggressively and managed to equalize on aggregate with a stunning long-range strike from Supachok Sarachat. The goal, initially protested by Vietnam, was confirmed after a VAR review.
However, Vietnam held their ground. Goalkeeper Dinh Trieu battled through an injury, while Van Thanh pushed through physical discomfort as Vietnam had exhausted their substitutions. In the end, Nguyen Hai Long’s late heroics ensured Vietnam’s triumph.
With the final whistle, Vietnam celebrated their third ASEAN Cup title, capping off a thrilling and unforgettable final. The victory marks a historic achievement for Vietnamese football and underscores their status as one of Southeast Asia’s football powerhouses.
Related
Source: Vietnam Insider