Expected lineups of Thailand and Vietnam in the second leg of the 2024 AFF Cup final
The second leg of the 2024 AFF Cup final between Thailand and Vietnam at Rajamangala is a top competition between strategists and bright stars.
Based on current form, squad and tactics from both coaches, the expected lineup for this historic match has been revealed with many notable points.
Thailand's expected lineup
Under the guidance of coach Masatada Ishii, the Thai team possesses the strongest force in the second leg. The strong attacking style and the mobility of the attacking players are the fulcrum for the home team to turn the situation around.
Goalkeeper: Khammai - who has shown solidity in goal in previous matches.
Defense: The quartet of Hemviboon, Mickelson, Bureerat, and Aukkee provide a mix of experience and youth, ensuring solid offensive and defensive support.
Midfield: Panya, Weidersjoe, Davis, and Pumwiset - creative and powerful names, ready to control the game and provide the ball to the front line.
Forwards: Ratree and Gustavsson - the attacking duo are expected to create breakthroughs and take advantage of opportunities in front of the opponent's goal.
With this lineup, Thailand will likely apply a pressing style of play, taking advantage of home field advantage to increase pressure right from the first minutes.
Vietnam's expected lineup
After a 2-1 win in the first leg, coach Kim Sang-sik will continue to maintain a balance between defense and counterattack, with the aim of protecting the advantage and taking advantage of the opponent's mistakes. However, the absence of defender Ho Tan Tai and striker Van Toan due to injury has caused some adjustments to the Vietnamese squad.
Goalkeeper: Dinh Trieu - who is in stable form and will be an important stopper against pressure from Thailand.
Defense: Tien Anh, Tien Dung, Thanh Chung, Duy Manh, and Xuan Manh - an experienced defensive quintet, forming a solid shield in front of the goal.
Midfield: Hoang Duc, Ngoc Tan, and Hai Long take on the role of controlling the midfield area, while also supporting quick counter-attacks.
Forwards: Vi Hao and Xuan Son - the pair expected to make a difference, with Xuan Son continuing to be a formidable spearhead as he is leading the scoring list in the tournament.
Two-team strategy
While Thailand are expected to play an all-out offensive game in search of an equalizer, Vietnam will continue to patiently wait for opportunities from quick counter-attacks. The concentration of the defense and the ability to take advantage of opportunities from stars like Xuan Son will be the key for Vietnam to protect their advantage and advance to the AFF Cup title for the third time.
The match is not only a contest between two talented teams, but also a battle of wits between coach Masatada Ishii and coach Kim Sang-sik. Can Thailand turn the tide, or will Vietnam continue to write history? All will be decided on the evening of January 5 at Rajamangala Stadium.
