History of confrontation between Thailand and Vietnam: We have the advantage
The match between Thailand and Vietnam in the AFF Cup final is always the focus of Southeast Asian football.
With a history of intense confrontation and top form, the return match on January 5, 2025 at Rajamangala Stadium promises to write a new chapter in the dramatic story between the two teams.
History of confrontation: The balance is tilted towards Vietnam
In the last 5 matches, Thailand won 2, Vietnam won 1, and the remaining 2 matches ended in a draw. However, recent results are gradually leaning towards Vietnam.
In particular, the 2-1 victory on January 2, 2025 proved that the Vietnamese coach and his team were not afraid of the team considered the "king" of Southeast Asia. The victory in the first leg was not only a turning point in terms of score but also created a huge mental boost for coach Kim Sang Sik and his team.
| Day | Match | Result |
| 26/12/21 | Thailand - Vietnam | 0-0 |
| 13/01/23 | Vietnam - Thailand | 2-2 |
| 16/01/23 | Thailand - Vietnam | 1-0 |
| 10/09/24 | Vietnam - Thailand | 1-2 |
| 02/01/25 | Vietnam - Thailand | 2-1 |
Last 5 matches record
Thailand
| Day | Match | Result |
| 17/12/24 | Singapore - Thailand | 2-4 |
| 20/12/24 | Thailand - Cambodia | 3-2 |
| 27/12/24 | Philippines - Thailand | 2-1 |
| 30/12/24 | Thailand - Philippines | 3-1 |
| 02/01/25 | Vietnam - Thailand | 2-1 |
Vietnam
| Day | Match | Result |
| 18/12/24 | Philippines - Vietnam | 1-1 |
| 21/12/24 | Vietnam - Myanmar | 5-0 |
| 26/12/24 | Singapore - Vietnam | 0-2 |
| 29/12/24 | Vietnam - Singapore | 3-1 |
| 02/01/25 | Vietnam - Thailand | 2-1 |
Vietnam have now achieved an impressive 80% win rate in their last five matches, including dominant victories over Myanmar (5-0) and Singapore (3-1, 2-0). The team has shown effectiveness in deploying a defensive counter-attacking style of play, with "explosive" Xuan Son leading the scoring list at the tournament with 7 goals.
The confrontation between Thailand and Vietnam is not only a battle for honor but also has strategic significance in affirming the position in the Southeast Asian region. Although Thailand is still a strong opponent, Vietnam with its high performance and competitive spirit is becoming a real challenge.
The recent victory not only helped Vietnam narrow the gap in head-to-head results but also strengthened the fans’ confidence. This could be a stepping stone for the team to go further in international tournaments.
Force information
Before the return match, Vietnam suffered a loss when Van Toan and Ho Tan Tai were both unable to play due to injury. However, the team still had Xuan Son - who was expected to continue to make a difference with his high performance.
Meanwhile, Thailand has the strongest squad with the return of stars like Suphanat and Suphachok. Coach Mano Polking's team will play an attacking game to level the score, while Vietnam is expected to stick to the defensive counter-attacking strategy - the style of play that brought optimal results in the first leg.
Expected lineup and score prediction
Thailand: Khammai; Hemviboon, Mickelson, Bureerat, Aukkee; Panya, Weidersjoe, Davis, Pumwiset; Ratree, Gustavsson.
Vietnam: Dinh Trieu; Tien Anh, Tien Dung, Thanh Chung, Duy Manh, Xuan Manh; Hoang Duc, Ngoc Tan, Hai Long; Vi Hao, Xuan Son.
Vietnam have won the AFF Cup twice (2008, 2018), and they are facing a great opportunity to win the 3rd title in history. The second leg of the final at Rajamangala will certainly be very difficult, but with the advantage of leading and reasonable tactics, coach Kim Sang Sik and his team can completely create history.
Predicted result: 1-1
A draw would be enough for Vietnam to win the 2024 AFF Cup, bringing great pride to fans after 27 years of waiting for an away victory against Thailand.
