Ho Chi Minh City turns red as Vietnam fans rally ahead of 2026 ASEAN Cup final

Fans young and old, friends and strangers alike, came together to show their love for football and their support for the Vietnamese national team.

From Wednesday afternoon, supporters began gathering at Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon Ward, Binh Tay Market in Binh Tay Ward, April 30 Square in Ben Cat Ward and Bach Dang Park in Thu Dau Mot Ward, among other locations, creating a vibrant pre-match atmosphere.

At Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, Tuoi Tre (Youth) online newspaper's reporters saw many fans wearing red shirts with yellow stars, carrying national flags, banners and other cheering accessories.

Cheers and chants rang out even before the match began.

Some foreign fans also joined the crowds on Nguyen Hue Street, wearing red shirts and carrying Vietnamese flags.

LED screens were also installed at several public locations, including the square at the administrative center on Street No. 9 in Di An Ward, Dong Hoa Stadium in Dong Hoa Ward, Tru Van Tho Commune Stadium, allowing local residents to watch the match together.

Authorities were deployed to maintain security and public order and assist residents.

Traffic police were also stationed along major roads in central areas to regulate traffic, ease congestion and ensure smooth travel.

All eyes are on My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi, with fans across the country hoping Vietnam will retain its 2026 ASEAN Cup title.

The second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 final between Vietnam and Thailand will kick off at 8:00 pm Wednesday at My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi.

Vietnam won the first leg 2-0, putting the country in a strong position to retain their Southeast Asian title.