The Thai team controlled the ball and created some dangerous opportunities in the first half, but could not convert it into a goal. Meanwhile, the Vietnamese team showed efficiency in decisive moments.
The difference appeared clearly from the beginning of the second half. When Thailand could not create enough pressure, the Vietnamese team suddenly accelerated and exploited the space behind the home team's defense.
The opening goal is the clearest proof. Dinh Bac handled calmly in the penalty area before taking a backheel for Hai Long to finish. This combination situation made the Thai defense unable to react in time.
After conceding a goal, Thailand was forced to push up the squad but could not create the necessary stability. Quang Hai then took advantage of the space to score the second goal, helping the Vietnamese team create a great advantage before the second leg.
One point that Thai media paid attention to was Dinh Bac. This striker continuously appeared in dispute situations, supporting defense and organizing attacks. The ability to operate with high intensity helped him become one of the players who put the most pressure on the home team.
Dinh Bac also showed danger in his ability to create breakthroughs. In addition to the assist for Hai Long, he also had a long-range shot that hit the crossbar at the end of the match. These situations showed that the Vietnamese team not only defended to preserve the score but still maintained the ability to put pressure when there was an opportunity.
Thai media also assessed that the team's defeat stemmed from not taking advantage of the opportunities they had. Thailand once had times of significant pressure, but the final shots were inaccurate or were blocked by goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang.
The effectiveness of the Vietnamese team became even more prominent when the away team only controlled the ball about 38% but still won 2-0. Solid defense, quick change of position and good use of opportunities helped coach Kim Sang-sik's team overcome pressure at Rajamangala.
After the match, Thai media admitted that the Vietnamese team is in a very big advantage before the second leg. Some opinions suggest that the home team's task at My Dinh will be very difficult when they have to score at least 2 goals to bring the match back to balance.
The defeat at Rajamangala stadium was therefore not simply due to the bad luck of the Thai team. Post-match analysis shows that the home team did not take advantage of the time to control the game, while the Vietnamese team showed more coldness in decisive situations.
With a 2-0 advantage, the Vietnamese team will return to My Dinh Stadium for the second leg on August 26. Thailand is facing a difficult task, and coach Kim Sang-sik's team has a great opportunity to defend the ASEAN Cup championship.
