The match at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok began with high intensity and physical clashes. In the fourth minute, Pham Tuan Hai received a yellow card for a foul on Jonathan Khemdee, drawing loud boos from the Thai fans.
However, only a few minutes later, Tuan Hai silenced the crowd by giving Vietnam an early lead. Exploiting a distracted Thailand defense that put focus on Xuan Son, Hai sneaked behind to chip the ball over goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai, justifying coach Kim Sang-sik's decision to start him.
Thailand equalized 20 minutes later after Doan Ngoc Tan lost possession near the penalty area. Ben Davis (number 13) capitalized with a precise curling right-footed strike, leaving goalkeeper Nguyen Dinh Trieu with no chance.
Vietnam suffered a major setback in the 32nd minute when Brazilian-born striker Son was forced to leave the field with a leg fracture after attempting a pass inside the box. He was holding his leg in pain and called for medical attention.
The tournament’s top scorer, with seven goals in just four matches, left on a stretcher and was rushed to hospital. His absence was a huge loss for Vietnam's attacking line.
In that circumstance, Thailand needed a tricky play to find the goal. After Vietnam kicked the ball out of play for Nguyen Hoang Duc to receive medical attention, Thailand did not return possession and Supachok Sarachat capitalized on a moment of confusion, scoring from a 30-m strike.
The controversial play led to a heated argument on the field. Despite Vietnam’s protests, the referee let the goal stand.
Five minutes later, Thailand faced a disadvantage when Weerathep Pomphan received a second yellow card for pulling down Nguyen Quang Hai during a counterattack.
With more men, Vietnam gained control. Three minutes later, Quang Hai's brilliant run opened space for Tuan Hai, whose curling effort deflected off Pansa Hemviboon into Thailand's net, leveling the score at 2-2.
In the final moments, Thailand pushed forward in desperation, even sending their goalkeeper into Vietnam's penalty area during a corner kick. This risky move backfired when Nguyen Hai Long got the ball and launched a long-range strike from the midfield into an empty net, sealing Vietnam's dramatic 3-2 victory.
As the final whistle blew, the Vietnam coaching staff erupted in joy. Coach Kim Sang-sik sprinted onto the field to celebrate with his players.
Appointed in May, Kim faced many challenges but ultimately led Vietnam to their third ASEAN Cup title.
