The Thai national football team suffered a 1-2 defeat against arch-rival Vietnam in the first leg of the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup final, held at Viet Tri Stadium, Vietnam, on January 2. Despite Thailand’s spirited attempts, Vietnam capitalized on key opportunities to secure victory.
The first half ended scoreless despite Vietnam's dominant start and Thailand's counterattacks. The second half saw Vietnam break the deadlock in the 59th minute with a header by naturalized forward Nguyen Xuan Son, assisted by Vu Van Thanh. Vietnam extended their lead in the 73rd minute after a Thai defensive error allowed Nguyen Xuan Son to score his second goal. Thailand responded in the 81st minute with a headed goal by defender Chalermsuk Aukkee, but it wasn’t enough to equalize.
Key players for Thailand included goalkeeper Pathiwat Kammai, captain Pansa Hemviboon, and forward Patrik Gustavsson. Substitutes Supachok Sarachat and Suphanat Mueanta added attacking depth but couldn’t overturn the deficit.
Thailand has a chance to redeem itself in the second leg on January 5 at Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok, with kickoff at 8:00 PM local time.