Vietnam Triumphs Over Thailand in SE Asian Football Final First Leg: A Stellar Performance by Nguyen Xuan Son
The Vietnamese team fed off the energy of their passionate home crowd and started the game with intense aggression, dominating the first 15 minutes. Their relentless attacks created a flurry of opportunities, with Thailand’s goal under constant threat. An early chance fell to Bui Vi Hao in the third minute, as he rose highest for a close-range header that, unfortunately, sailed over the bar. Naturalized striker Xuan Son, of Brazilian origin, and winger Vu Van Thanh also tried their luck, but their efforts lacked the accuracy needed to break the deadlock. Thailand slowly regained their composure and started to find their rhythm, but Vietnam’s solid defensive line, led by a calm and composed backline, thwarted any meaningful attempts. The hosts continued to create chances and kept the Thai team on the back foot. In the second half, head coach Kim Sang Sik introduced playmaker Nguyen Quang Hai, which proved to be a masterstroke. Vietnam immediately looked more assured in possession...