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| Vietnam vs Thailand: Xuan Son opens the scoring with a close-range header in the second half |
Vietnamese players capitalized on their home-field advantage in the first leg to gain an edge over Thailand. Xuan Son’s outstanding form once again helped coach Kim Sang-sik’s squad overwhelm the defending champions.
The hosts continued to employ a straightforward style of play, focusing on delivering the ball to the naturalized striker. Despite having less than 40% ball possession in the first half, the home team created twice as many chances as their opponents, with Xuan Son and his teammates attempting 15 shots.
In the first half, the Vietnamese striker was closely marked by Thai defenders. While he often dominated in physical duels, the visiting defenders managed to disrupt his efforts at critical moments.
Thailand’s defense couldn’t contain Xuan Son for the entire match. The striker enhanced his top position in the race for the 2024 AFF Cup scorer with a second-half brace.
Xuan Son opened the scoring with a close-range header and doubled the lead with a brilliant solo effort starting from his own half. The 1997-born striker single-handedly created the second goal by stealing the ball, sprinting from his defensive half to the opponents’ penalty area, and finishing decisively.
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| Vietnam vs Thailand: Xuan Son celebrates his goal in the second half |
Thailand launched an intense offensive in the final 15 minutes of the match. The visitors reignited their hopes in the 83rd minute with a header from center-back Chalermsak Aukkee.
In the remaining time, Quang Hai and his teammates ensured no further opportunities for the opposition to earn an equalizer.
Thailand’s head coach Masatada Ishii praised Xun Son, stating that he was the key difference in Thailand’s loss to Vietnam on January 2 evening.
He was confident that his team still have a full chance to turn the tide when they will host Vietnam at Rajamangala Stadium in the second leg in three days.
Vietnam secured a 2-1 victory in the first leg, gaining an advantage over Thailand. This marks the first time in 27 years that Vietnam have defeated Thailand at home since their 3-0 victory in the 1998 Tiger Cup.
However, with only a one-goal difference, the second leg remains highly unpredictable. The rematch between Vietnam and Thailand will take place at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok on January 5./.
VOV