SEA Games 33: Regional media ‘erupt’ over U22 Vietnam’s victory

Thailand’s leading sports outlet Siam Sport bluntly called the extra-time loss to U22 Vietnam a “pain,” noting that the hosts led 2-0 in the first half but failed to maintain their advantage. “We must accept the silver medal for the third consecutive time, while Vietnam has claimed their third men’s football gold in SEA Games history,” Siam Sport wrote.

Sharing the sentiment, Thairath headlined: “Thailand leads but loses to Vietnam in extra time, missing the chance for a 17th gold.” The newspaper expressed disappointment as Thai men’s football continues to miss out on SEA Games gold for eight years, highlighting defensive errors in the decisive extra-time goal.

Meanwhile, The Nation Thailand described the final as a sharply divided contest. According to the paper, U22 Thailand started strongly, scoring early through a free kick by Yotsakorn, followed by Kakana’s stunning finish doubling the lead, energizing Rajamangala Stadium. However, “the second half belonged to U22 Vietnam,” as the situation completely reversed. Despite Thailand’s chances to equalize, notably Thanakrit’s shot, U22 Vietnam held on to win 3-2 and claim gold, while Thailand must continue waiting for their 17th title.

The match scenario was also analyzed in detail by many Thai newspapers. The first 45 minutes saw the hosts dominate due to their strong fitness and secretive squad members reserved for the final. In the second half, coach Kim Sang Sik’s adjustments, especially bringing Thanh Nhan on, helped U22 Vietnam regain control. Dinh Bac earned and converted a penalty, before Ly Duc leveled at 2-2 with a header. The turning point came in extra time when Thanh Nhan scored the decisive rebound, completing a spectacular comeback.

Matichon used bitter words: “Dream shattered! Thailand loses 2-3 to Vietnam, unable to host the men’s football SEA Games championship on home soil for the first time in 50 years.” The paper emphasized this defeat happened at Rajamangala — a stadium that has witnessed many of Thailand’s football glories.

Notably, despite the disappointment, Thai media still showed respect for U22 Vietnam. Siam Sport praised coach Kim Sang Sik’s tactical brilliance, calling the substitution of Khuat Van Khang with Thanh Nhan a risky but pivotal decision. The paper also pointed out that U22 Thailand’s failure to extend their lead to 3-0 in the first half kept the match “open,” allowing U22 Vietnam to stage a strong comeback. According to Siam Sport, this loss not only cost the gold but also raised serious questions about Thailand’s tactics, in-game adjustments, and overall football structure.

Not only Thai media, but regional and international outlets also highly praised U22 Vietnam. Indonesian and Malaysian news sites commended the team’s never-give-up spirit and resilience under coach Kim Sang Sik. Korean media lauded the “Kim Sang Sik miracle” once again, which helped U22 Vietnam reclaim the SEA Games crown after a four-year wait.