Defender Ho Tan Tai arrived at the airport in a wheelchair, supported by striker Bui Vi Hao. Tan Tai, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury during the semifinal against Singapore, traveled with his teammates to Thailand to witness their triumph.
Nguyen Xuan Son, transported directly from the hospital by ambulance, arrived at the airport on a stretcher.
Fans gathered to encourage the naturalized Brazilian-born striker, who repeatedly assured them: "I'm fine, I'm fine."
Once transferred to a wheelchair, Son met with coach Kim and his teammates in a private area.
Coach Kim Sang-sik personally handed the gold medal to the 27-year-old striker. Son has been absent from the coronation ceremony at Rajamangala Stadium as he was receiving emergency treatment for a fractured right leg sustained during the match.
As the brightest star in the squad, Son received special attention. Teammates and fans alike often ask for his autograph.
Goalkeeper Nguyen Dinh Trieu, another standout performer, was also celebrated by fans at the airport. From a supporting role, the Hai Phong FC goalkeeper claimed the starting position and stayed consistent throughout the tournament, earning the award for best goalkeeper.
Captain Do Duy Manh happily posed for photos with supporters. In his first stint as team captain, the Hanoi FC player demonstrated leadership, constantly motivating his teammates and delivering uncompromising performances on the pitch.
Midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc (R) playfully teased his teammate Nguyen Van Toan, who missed the semifinals and finals due to injury but remained with the squad to give his support.
Goalkeeper Filip Nguyen (L) and midfielder Chau Ngoc Quang displayed their close friendship, despite playing for different clubs. Filip was on the bench for the final, while Chau played a vital role in midfield.
After the flight carrying the champions landed at Noi Bai Airport at 2:30 p.m, the team will parade through Hanoi on a double-decker bus, celebrating with fans as they bring the trophy home.
This ASEAN Cup title marked several milestones for Vietnam. They became the first team in ASEAN Cup history to defeat Thailand in both legs of the final. They also set a record by winning all seven matches in a single tournament, an unprecedented achievement in the 29-year history of the competition.
