Thai media points out the reason why Thailand U22 lost to Vietnam U22.
Leading 2-0 but ultimately losing 2-3, Thai media suggested that the grueling schedule had worn down the physical condition of key players, leading to an unbelievable defeat in the SEA Games 33 final.
An unbelievable defeat at home.
The SEA Games 33 men's football final at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok witnessed an unbelievable scenario. Despite leading Vietnam U22 2-0, Thailand U22 conceded two goals and lost 2-3 in extra time, narrowly missing out on the gold medal.
Following this defeat, Thai media analyzed several factors, with the most prominent being the significant decline in physical fitness of key players. Many opinions suggested that the demanding match schedule had worn down the "Young War Elephants'" energy.
The grueling schedule takes a toll on physical fitness.
One of the main reasons cited is that the SEA Games do not coincide with FIFA's international match calendar. This allows clubs to call players back to play even while the tournament is underway, especially after the Thailand U22 team secured their place in the knockout stage.
As a result, many players have to play continuously at both club and national team levels. Thai media has highlighted three typical cases of players having to play three matches in just 5-6 days:
- Chaiyapol Adthana (Sukhothai FC): Played 3 matches in 6 days, including a match at the Thai Championship (89 minutes), the SEA Games semi-final (45 minutes), and the SEA Games final (105 minutes).
- Waris Chuthong (BG Pathum United): Played 3 matches in 5 days, including a match at the Thai Championship (73 minutes), a SEA Games semi-final (30 minutes), and a SEA Games final (120 minutes).
- Kakhana Khamyok (Muangthong United): Playing 3 matches in 5 days, including a match at the Thai Championship (90 minutes), a SEA Games semi-final (3 minutes), and a SEA Games final (80 minutes).
Constant travel and matches meant these players didn't have enough time to recover. Signs of fatigue were evident in the two extra time periods of the final, when the U22 Thailand team couldn't maintain pressure and allowed U22 Vietnam to turn the tide.
The victory of the Vietnamese spirit.
While the U22 Thailand team struggled with fitness issues, the U22 Vietnam team, under the guidance of coach Kim Sang Sik, displayed a tenacious fighting spirit. Trailing by two goals, the young Vietnamese players remained undaunted, persistently organizing attacks and creating one of the most impressive comebacks in the history of the SEA Games.
This victory not only brought a prestigious gold medal to the Vietnamese sports delegation but also served as proof of the team's courage, determination, and thorough physical preparation.
