Thailand snap Vietnam’s record 27-match unbeaten streak under Kim Sang Sik

Vietnam fell 0-2 to arch-rival Thailand in their second Group B match in Indonesia on Tuesday night, their first defeat under Kim since October 2024.

Kim Sang Sik’s side were competitive for much of the match but failed to capitalize on their chances, while Thailand’s key players delivered at decisive moments.

Before the defeat, Vietnam had recorded 23 wins and four draws under the South Korean coach, surpassing their previous 18-match unbeaten run set between 2016 and 2018 under Nguyen Huu Thang, Mai Duc Chung, and Park Hang Seo.

The streak began with a 1-1 draw against India in October 2024 and included Vietnam’s ASEAN Cup 2024 title campaign, 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, international friendlies, and their 1-0 opening victory over the Philippines at the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.

Seeking lessons, stronger response after defeat

Forward Nguyen Dinh Bac admitted his disappointment after the loss but said Vietnam would use the setback as a chance to improve.

He said the team had created several dangerous chances but failed to convert them, adding that missed opportunities can prove costly in football.

“This defeat will help us look back at ourselves and become stronger,” Dinh Bac shared with the press, while also praising Thailand for the quality of their players.

Midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc echoed that view, saying Thailand deserved credit for being more clinical.

“They took their chances better and deserved the win,” he said.

Hoang Duc also praised Thai star Chanathip Songkrasin, describing him as one of Southeast Asia’s top players and saying his presence gave Thailand a major boost.

Although Vietnam were without injured striker Nguyen Xuan Son, Hoang Duc said the players who stepped in had performed their roles well.