The 2022 AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup culminated in a thrilling finale as Vietnam clinched their third ASEAN Championship title, overcoming defending champions Thailand in a captivating two-legged final. The Golden Star Warriors, led by South Korean coach Kim Pan-gon, avenged their 2020 final defeat to the War Elephants, securing a 5-3 aggregate victory after a pulsating 3-2 win in the second leg at the Thammasat Stadium in Bangkok. The victory marked Vietnam’s first ASEAN title since 2018 and solidified their position as a regional football powerhouse.
The first leg, held at the Mỹ Đình National Stadium in Hanoi, saw Vietnam establish a slender 2-1 lead. The atmosphere was electric as the home crowd roared their support for the Golden Star Warriors. Thailand, seeking a record-extending seventh title, faced an uphill battle in the second leg. The stage was set for a dramatic showdown in Bangkok, with both teams vying for regional supremacy.
The second leg in Bangkok unfolded with relentless intensity. Vietnam extended their aggregate lead early on through Pham Tuan Hai, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by the Thais. However, Thailand responded swiftly, showcasing their attacking prowess. Ben Davis’s expertly placed strike leveled the score on the night, injecting renewed hope into the home crowd. The match remained on a knife’s edge, with both teams displaying their attacking intent and tactical acumen.
As the second half progressed, the drama intensified. Supachok Sarachat’s thunderous long-range effort put Thailand ahead on the night and leveled the aggregate score, igniting the home crowd and intensifying the pressure on Vietnam. The match reached a critical juncture when Thai defender Weerathep Pomphun received a second yellow card, reducing Thailand to ten men. This pivotal moment shifted the momentum decisively in Vietnam’s favor.
With the numerical advantage, Vietnam pressed forward relentlessly, seeking the decisive goal. Their persistence paid off when substitute Nguyen Quang Hai’s shot was deflected into the Thai net by an unfortunate own goal from Pansa Hemviboon. The Vietnamese fans erupted in celebration, sensing victory within their grasp. Despite Thailand’s valiant efforts to equalize, Vietnam’s resolute defense held firm.
In the dying embers of the match, with Thailand pushing forward in desperation, Vietnam sealed their victory with a counter-attacking goal from Nguyen Hai Long, scoring into an empty net as the Thai goalkeeper had ventured forward in search of a last-gasp equalizer. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Vietnamese players and fans, marking a triumphant end to their AFF Championship campaign. The hard-fought victory underscored Vietnam’s resilience, tactical discipline, and unwavering determination.
The victory served as a testament to coach Kim Pan-gon’s tactical prowess and the team’s collective spirit. He successfully implemented a cohesive game plan that blended defensive solidity with swift counter-attacks, effectively neutralizing Thailand’s attacking threats while maximizing their own scoring opportunities. The Vietnamese players displayed remarkable discipline and composure throughout the tournament, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it mattered most. The triumph cemented Vietnam’s status as a dominant force in Southeast Asian football and signaled their intent to continue challenging for regional honors in the years to come. The AFF Championship victory was a moment of national pride and a source of immense joy for Vietnamese football fans worldwide. It underscored the progress and development of Vietnamese football, reaffirming their position among the elite teams in the region. The Golden Star Warriors’ journey to the championship was a testament to their unwavering dedication, teamwork, and the unwavering support of their passionate fans.
