Vietnam Secures 2-1 Victory Over Thailand in ASEAN Championship Final First Leg
Nguyen Xuan Son Shines with Two Goals in Phu Tho Showdown
Vietnam took a crucial step toward the ASEAN Championship title with a 2–1 victory over Thailand in the first leg of the final, held in Phu Tho on January 2.
Striker Nguyen Xuan Son emerged as the hero of the night, scoring twice in the second half. His first goal came in the 60th minute after a brilliant assist from Nguyen Quang Hai and Vu Van Thanh, ending with a powerful header into the top corner. In the 74th minute, Son dazzled the crowd with a solo run, skillfully evading Thai defenders before launching a precise left-footed strike into the net.
Thailand managed to pull one back in the 83rd minute with a header from Chalermsak, assisted by a well-placed cross from Suphanat Mueanta.
Despite a goalless first half, the match delivered intense action and showcased the resilience of both teams. Vietnam will now head to Thailand for the second leg on January 5, with a narrow advantage in hand.