U22 Vietnam awaits a historic double victory against Thailand

From winning the ASEAN Cup 2024 to reaching the final of SEA Games 33, the Korean coach continues to craft an emotional and fateful story between Vietnamese football and the Land of Smiles.

The ASEAN Cup 2024 title won by Coach Kim Sang Sik’s team in early 2025 brought joy and excitement to Vietnamese football fans. This result is a perfect stepping stone for the Vietnam team to hope to close the 2025 calendar year with celebration.

Under Kim Sang Sik’s leadership, U22 Vietnam has maintained consistency. The team scores regularly, averaging 2 goals per game, while conceding only 1 goal since the start of the tournament. This achievement matches that of host Thailand before the final.

U22 Vietnam’s major advantage lies in their squad depth. Most players are key figures in the V-League, accustomed to high-pressure matches and quick to adapt to tactical demands. This allows Coach Kim Sang Sik to rotate players and change strategies effectively, factors that have proven crucial in challenging moments.

The experienced V-League squad gives Coach Kim Sang Sik many options. Meanwhile, U22 Thailand enters the final with significant disruptions. Coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul had to release 7 key players back to their clubs since SEA Games is not on FIFA Days and the Thai League continues. At one point, U22 Thailand had only 14 players training, insufficient for tactical drills against opponents. However, they still hold home advantage and passionate fan support. Yet, not winning SEA Games since 2017 puts heavy pressure on the young Thai players.

The "Rajamangala cauldron" is no longer unfamiliar ground for Coach Kim Sang Sik. He previously triumphed here with Vietnam at the ASEAN Cup 2024 and now stands on the brink of completing a double within a year, affirming his leadership and influence on Vietnamese football.