Sport · Singapore Bureau
Vietnam takes commanding lead in ASEAN Championship final
Defending champions Vietnam secured a 2-0 victory over Thailand in the first leg of the ASEAN Championship final in Bangkok, with goals in the second half positioning them well ahead in the two-legged tie.
LSN Singapore ·
Vietnam's defending champions put themselves in a strong position to retain the ASEAN Championship title following Saturday's commanding first-leg performance in Bangkok. Goals from Nguyen Hai Long and Nguyen Quang Hai in the second half gave the visitors a decisive 2-0 advantage against hosts Thailand.
The victories came after a goalless opening period, with Vietnam finding their rhythm following the interval to dominate the contest. Both strikes in the latter stages of the match proved crucial in establishing a formidable lead heading into the return fixture.
The second leg will determine whether Vietnam can successfully defend their title in the regional championship. The two-goal cushion provides the Vietnamese side with considerable breathing room, though Thailand will be favourites to press for goals in their home fixture to resurrect their campaign.