Vietnam Crowned Kings of AFF Cup 2024: A Thrilling Victory Over Thailand

On January 5, Vietnam clinched their third ASEAN Cup title with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Thailand at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium. The match was an exhilarating display of footballing prowess and determination by both teams.
Vietnamese players and coaching staff celebrate their third ASEAN Cup triumph. Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times

Vietnam drew first blood in the 8th minute through a skillful finish by striker Pham Tuan Hai. Thailand, however, responded strongly with two goals from Ben Davis in the 28th minute and Supachok Sarachat in the 64th, turning the game around to lead 2-1. Controversy arose when Thailand’s second goal was scored after Vietnam had put the ball out of play to attend to an injured player, expecting a return of possession from their opponents.
Striker Pham Tuan Hai (number 10) celebrates his opening goal. Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times

The match took another turn in the 75th minute when Thai player Weerathep Pomphan received his second yellow card, reducing Thailand to 10 men. Vietnam seized the initiative and equalized in the 82nd minute through an own goal by Thai defender Pansa Hemviboon.

As the game entered stoppage time, midfielder Tran Hai Long secured Vietnam’s victory with a long-range strike into an empty net, making the final score 3-2.
The controversial goal by Thailand in the 64th minute. Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times

The two-leg final ended with a cumulative score of 5-3 in Vietnam’s favor. This triumph adds to their previous ASEAN Cup victories in 2008 and 2018.

The Vietnamese team’s performance was met with jubilation from fans in the stadium and across the nation, celebrating a hard-fought victory over their longstanding regional rivals.
Vietnamese national flags flying high at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium. Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times

Despite challenges, including a significant injury to key player Nguyen Xuan Son in the 33rd minute, the Vietnamese team demonstrated resilience and determination. Their historic win will be remembered as one of their most remarkable achievements in Southeast Asian football.
Captain Nguyen Duy Manh receives the Most Valuable Player award on behalf of striker Nguyen Xuan Son (number 12). Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times

“This victory belongs to the entire team. We fought hard and delivered an excellent performance, encouraging each other to fight for the pride of our nation,” said striker Pham Tuan Hai, who also initiated the move that led to Thailand’s own goal.

“Xuan Son’s injury was unfortunate, but during the break, our teammates and coach motivated one another to battle on for those who couldn’t continue and bring the trophy home to Vietnam,” he added.

Hai also expressed gratitude to the Vietnamese fans: “Your support means the world to us and is the greatest gift to the team.”

This victory has brought immense joy to the people of Vietnam and marks the start of a new era of sporting success for the nation.

The streets of Hanoi erupted in celebration as football enthusiasts cheered and rejoiced, marking this historic victory with enthusiasm and national pride.
Millions of Vietnamese football fans took to the streets to celebrate the victory. Photo: Van Trong/The Hanoi Times


Fans cheered and celebrated with enthusiasm. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times


The streets were filled with the red theme color of Vietnam. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times


A fan holds a banner proclaiming “Vietnam Champions”.


Vehicles and people filled the streets and overpasses, honking and celebrating Vietnam’s victory. Photo: Van Trong/The Hanoi Times
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