Thailand Eyes Bold Comeback in Asean Mitsubishi Electric Cup Final
Thailand’s football team faces an uphill battle in the Asean Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024 final, as they head into the second leg trailing Vietnam 2-1. The defending champions are now tasked with overcoming a one-goal deficit in the crucial match to be played at Rajamangala National Stadium on Sunday. The War Elephants, aiming for their third consecutive title and an eighth overall, will have to secure a two-goal victory to reclaim the trophy.
The first leg, held in Vietnam at Viet Tri Stadium, saw a thrilling encounter that tested Thailand’s resilience. Vietnam’s star player, Brazil-born Nguyen Xuan Son, played a pivotal role by scoring a brace that gave his side a slight advantage. Despite Thailand’s dominant possession, they struggled to convert their chances and were punished by Xuan Son’s clinical finishing. Thailand’s Chalermsak Aukkee managed to pull one back for the visitors, ensuring the tie remains open going into the second leg.
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Thailand’s coach, Masatada Ishii, acknowledged his team’s mistakes, particularly in defense, which allowed Xuan Son to shine. “We made several sloppy errors that led to their goals,” Ishii said. The Japanese coach also emphasized the importance of Xuan Son’s presence in the Vietnamese squad, noting how his skill could make the difference in tight matches like this one.
The game was a tale of two contrasting styles. Thailand controlled possession, but Vietnam showed that they don’t need much of the ball to capitalize on opportunities. After a goalless first half, Vietnam made their breakthrough in the 59th minute, with a well-executed cross and header leading to Xuan Son’s first goal. The second came in the 73rd minute when Xuan Son dispossessed Chalermsak, then calmly finished past Thailand’s goalkeeper.
Despite some unlucky moments for Thailand, including a Suphanat Mueanta free-kick that hit the crossbar, Chalermsak redeemed himself with a header in the 82nd minute, giving Thailand hope for a comeback. The one-goal deficit now sets the stage for an intense and decisive second leg in Bangkok.
Midfielder Ekanit Panya, who made his first appearance of the tournament in the first leg, remained optimistic despite the loss. “We still have one more match at home, and we will do our best to win the trophy,” he said, reflecting the determination that still burns in the hearts of the Thai players.
For Thailand to claim their eighth Asean Championship, they will need to replicate their successful comeback against the Philippines in the semifinals. The second leg promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams desperate to seize the trophy. The match will be broadcast live on Thai Rath TV, TrueSport 2, AIS Play, and BG Sports YouTube Channel, ensuring fans across the nation are ready for what promises to be a dramatic conclusion to this exciting football campaign.
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