Vietnamese players celebrate after defeating Thailand to win the men’s football final at the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, December 18, 2025. Photo: Tuoi Tre
Vietnam controlled the early exchanges in the final but fell behind in the 19th minute when Yotsakorn Burapha curled a free kick past goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien from outside the penalty area.
Thailand doubled their lead in the 31st minute as Seksan Ratree finished a swift counterattack to give the hosts a 2-0 advantage at half-time.
Vietnam improved after the break following substitutions by coach Kim Sang Sik.
Vietnam’s Nguyen Thanh Nhan scores the winning goal during the men’s football final against Thailand at the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, December 18, 2025. GIF photo: FPT Play
Nguyen Dinh Bac pulled a goal back in the 49th minute, converting a penalty after colliding with the Thai goalkeeper in the box.
The equalizer came in the 61st minute when Thailand defender Waris Choolthong turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Pham Ly Duc after a corner kick.
With the score level at 2-2 after regulation time, the match went to extra time.
Players of Vietnam (red) and Thailand are seen in action during the men’s football final at the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, December 18, 2025. Photo: Tuoi Tre
Vietnam completed the turnaround in the 96th minute when Nguyen Thanh Nhan scored from close range after goalkeeper spilled Le Van Thuan's shot inside the area.
The goal proved decisive as Vietnam held on to secure the gold medal against longtime regional rivals Thailand.
Max: 1500 characters
There are no comments yet. Be the first to comment.