Vietnam U22 team came from behind to win 3-2 and claim the gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games.
The spectacular comeback from 0-2 to 3-2 against Thailand helped the Vietnam U22 team win the gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games, causing a sensation in Asian media, especially in China.
The Vietnam U22 team completed one of the most memorable comebacks in SEA Games history, defeating host nation Thailand U22 3-2 in the final to win the prestigious Gold Medal. This victory not only affirmed the position of Vietnamese youth football but also attracted special attention from international media.
A historic comeback
The final match in Thailand unfolded with an unbelievable scenario. U22 Thailand, with the home advantage, quickly took a two-goal lead, putting Coach Kim Sang-sik's team in a difficult position. However, with their indomitable fighting spirit and sound tactical adjustments, U22 Vietnam dramatically turned the tide. Consecutive goals helped the "Golden Star Warriors" equalize and then secure a 3-2 victory, turning their opponent's stadium into a venue for their coronation.
Chinese media were astonished.
The victory of the Vietnam U22 team has generated a strong wave of public opinion. The prestigious Chinese sports news site New.QQ published an article with the impressive headline: "From 0-2 to 3-2! Vietnam staged a spectacular comeback, defeating Thailand to win the gold medal." The newspaper described the Vietnam U22 team's victory as "miraculous," while also praising the resilience and solid defense built by coach Kim Sang-sik.
This attention is not accidental. New.QQ recalled the 0-1 defeat of the Chinese U22 team against the Vietnamese U22 team at the "Panda Cup" in Chengdu in November. Vietnam's consecutive victories against both China and Thailand in the same year are seen as proof of their remarkable progress and a warning to their rivals in the continent.
Looking ahead to the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Championship.
Following their success at the 33rd SEA Games, Coach Kim Sang-sik and his team will have a short break before embarking on a new journey. The next challenge will be the 2026 AFC U23 Championship in Saudi Arabia. With high spirits and confidence, the Vietnam U22 team is expected to continue creating surprises, living up to the title of "miracle champions" that international media have affectionately bestowed upon them.
