Thai media buzzes as Vietnam stages an incredible comeback after 14 minutes

Despite trailing by three goals in the first half, the Vietnamese futsal team resiliently fought back to secure a draw against Thailand. This dramatic turnaround has drawn special attention from the Thai media, which acknowledged the impressive fighting spirit of the red-shirted squad.

Thai media outlets have unanimously focused on the clash between the Thai and Vietnamese men's futsal teams in the third match of the 2026 Continental Futsal Championship. SIAMSPORT described it as an emotional encounter, where the Thai team let victory slip away despite establishing a massive advantage early in the first half.

According to SIAMSPORT, the Thai futsal team had a nearly perfect start against their world-ranked 21st opponent. After defeating New Zealand and Afghanistan, Coach Rakphol Sainetngam's side continued to showcase their strength by leading Vietnam 3-0 just 14 minutes into the match. However, the subsequent developments left the Thai media filled with regret. Notably, SIAMSPORT emphasized that Thailand will have to face Russia in the final round to decide the championship after this incredible draw with Vietnam.

In the second minute, Therdsak Charoenphong opened the scoring from an assist by Narongsak Wingwon. By the 7th minute, Panat Kittiphanuwong intercepted the ball from a Vietnamese player, dribbled past the goalkeeper, and finished to make it 2-0. Panat then shone again in the 14th minute with a long-range shot after a combination with Apiwat Jamcharoen, ending the first half with a three-goal lead for the home side.

In the second half, Thailand continued to create chances, with Minthada Phiromyoo nearly scoring in the 29th minute but failing to beat the Vietnamese defense. However, the momentum shifted from the 31st minute when Doan Phat pulled one back to 3-1 with a stunning long-range strike, sparking a powerful resurgence from the Vietnamese team.

In the 34th minute, Minh Quang added another goal from outside the box, reducing the deficit to just one goal. As the match entered its final minutes, Vietnam employed a power-play tactic and reaped the rewards. In the 38th minute, Da Hai scored from close range to equalize at 3-3, leaving Thailand to rue the lost victory, as SIAMSPORT described.

In the other match, Russia drew 3-3 with Afghanistan, keeping the title race wide open. According to Thai media, the Thai futsal team currently has 7 points from three matches and will face Russia, ranked 7th in the world, at 8:30 PM on August 6. SIAMSPORT stated that this will be the decisive match for the championship, after Thailand failed to hold onto their advantage in the face of the Vietnamese futsal team's tenacity.