Thai media 'celebrates like a festival' after defeating Vietnam's U23 team

The minimal 1-0 win by the national team over Vietnam's U23 side caused Thai media to erupt with excitement, considering this a psychological uplift after a long series of only draws and defeats.

Thai media lavished praise on their national U23 team after beating Vietnam's U23 1-0 in the second match of the CFA Team China 2026 friendly tournament. Siamsport described the impressive start as the young Golden Temple nation's squad decisively shaped the match's outcome within the opening seconds.

“In less than half a minute, Thanakrit Chotimueangpak made the difference with a shot that deflected off a Vietnam U23 defender into the net. The early goal allowed the young 'War Elephants' to develop a favorable game flow, though we later missed some regrettable opportunities in the first half,” Siamsport reported. From this advantage, Thailand's U23 proactively controlled the match's tempo.

Not limited to on-field developments, Siamsport emphasized the psychological significance of the win. Thailand's youth team had endured a long unbeaten streak against Vietnamese players (at both U22 and U23 levels), so this result provides a major mental boost. It also serves as a crucial preparatory step for upcoming major objectives.

Sharing a similar perspective, Thairath channel stated this outcome carries great meaning within the context of recent confrontations between the two teams.“Before the match, many assessments suggested Vietnam's U23 held a slight edge due to their semifinal achievement in the 2026 Asian U23 Championship and final third-place finish. Moreover, Vietnam's U23 is precisely the team that defeated Thailand's U23 to win the gold medal at SEA Games 33.”

Thairath also acknowledged thedifference lies in the ability to capitalize on opportunities. “Vietnam's U23 is regarded as the team with more stable form and richer achievements, but today, the on-field result showed Thailand's U23 utilized their chances better.” This reflects a clear improvement in the approach of Thailand's youth team.

In reality, after the early conceded goal, Vietnam's U23 gradually regained control and created significant pressure, especially in the second half. However, a lack of sharpness in finishing prevented Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh's team from finding an equalizer, thereby accepting a narrow defeat.

The 1-0 victory gives Thailand's U23 4 points after 2 matches, temporarily holding the lead in the championship race at the friendly tournament in China. For the Golden Temple nation's media, this is not merely about 3 points, but also a sign that the team is gradually regaining confidence after a period of unfavorable confrontations against Vietnam's U23 and U22 squads.