Vietnam's national football team faced a challenging defeat against Thailand, losing 2-0 in their second match of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. Coach Kim Sang-sik and his players, however, are determined to remain positive despite the setback. Striker Nguyen Dinh Bac noted that the team had played well, creating numerous opportunities, but were unable to convert them into goals.

After the match held at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung, Indonesia, Dinh Bac stated, "I think Vietnam played well against Thailand and created many chances. It is normal in football to attack without scoring and then concede a goal." He emphasized that this defeat would help the team grow stronger, adding, "Football cannot always win, and the entire team will stay focused on preparing well for the match against Pakistan."

Defender Nguyen Adou Leygley Minh echoed Dinh Bac's sentiments, describing the match as balanced. He expressed disappointment over the result but acknowledged that the team performed better than in their previous victory against the Philippines. Minh remarked, "We remained calm in our attacking organization even after conceding early, and we were very close to equalizing."

The match was particularly significant as it featured two of Southeast Asia's most successful teams, with Thailand having won the ASEAN Cup seven times and Vietnam four times. The two teams had previously met in the final of the same tournament, where Vietnam triumphed 4-2. This time, however, Thailand fielded a stronger lineup, including key players like Chanathip Songkrasin.

Thailand took the lead early in the match, scoring in the 10th minute through Sarach Yooyen. While Vietnam enjoyed 58% possession and created 12 attempts on goal, they struggled to penetrate Thailand's well-organized defense, particularly in the absence of their key striker Nguyen Xuan Son. A goal by Nguyen Tai Loc was disallowed for offside, further compounding Vietnam's frustrations.

As the match progressed, Vietnam made several substitutions to refresh their attack, but they were unable to find the back of the net. In stoppage time, Thailand sealed their victory with a counter-attack that led to a second goal from Chaiyaphon Otton. Despite the loss, players like Do Hoang Hen expressed that Vietnam deserved a better result, citing a lack of luck.

The defeat marked the end of a remarkable 27-match unbeaten streak for Vietnam under Coach Kim Sang-sik since 2024. With this loss, Vietnam's chances of reaching the finals of the FIFA ASEAN Cup have diminished, as they now trail Thailand by three points. Their next match against Pakistan on October 2 will be crucial, as a victory could secure them a spot in the third-place playoff against either Indonesia or Malaysia.