Thailand’s dream of reclaiming SEA Games men’s football gold ended in heartbreak as they suffered a 2-3 extra-time defeat to Vietnam in a pulsating final of the 33rd SEA Games at the Rajamangala National Stadium on 18 December 2025.
Despite a commanding first-half display that saw the War Elephants take a two-goal lead, Vietnam’s resilience and composure under pressure turned the tide, forcing extra time before sealing a dramatic comeback to lift the gold medal. Thailand settled for a silver medal after a valiant effort on home soil.
Thailand entered the final full of confidence after edging Malaysia in the semi-finals, while Vietnam booked their place by overcoming the Philippines. Head coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul entrusted Yotsakon Burapha to lead the line, supported by Eklas Sanhrahon, Khokana Khamyok, and Seksan Ratri.
The hosts struck first in the 20th minute through a moment of brilliance. From a free-kick just outside the box, Yotsakon Burapha curled a superb right-footed effort past the Vietnamese goalkeeper to make it 1-0 — his seventh goal of the tournament, underlining his status as Thailand’s talisman.
Thailand nearly doubled the lead five minutes later when Eklas Sanhrahon’s long-range strike deflected off a defender, but Vietnam’s keeper reacted sharply to deny the danger.
Momentum firmly belonged to Thailand. Despite being forced into an early substitution in the 29th minute, with Chonnapat Buaphan injured and replaced by Phichitchai Siakrathok, the hosts continued to dominate.
Just two minutes later, Thailand made it 2-0. Khakana Khamyok showed excellent awareness to turn under pressure before releasing Seksan Ratri, who cut inside and fired a precise left-footed shot into the net.
Thailand went into half-time in full control, leading 2-0 and seemingly on course for gold.
The second half, however, told a very different story. Vietnam clawed their way back in the 49th minute when they were awarded a penalty. Nguyen Dinh Bac stepped up and converted confidently to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
Just 11 minutes later, Vietnam struck again. From a corner kick, Pham Ly Duc rose highest to head home the equaliser, bringing the score level at 2-2 and shifting the momentum completely.
Thailand attempted to regain control with tactical substitutions, including the introduction of Chawalwit Saelao and later a triple change in the 80th minute, but neither side could find a winner in regulation time.
With the match heading into extra time, Vietnam delivered the decisive blow in the 96th minute. A defensive lapse from Thailand allowed the ball to fall kindly to Nguyen Thanh Nhan, who made no mistake in firing Vietnam into a 3-2 lead.
Thailand made their final substitution, bringing on Thanawut Photchai, and pushed forward desperately in search of an equaliser. Despite late pressure, Vietnam’s defence held firm until the final whistle.
The defeat confirmed Thailand’s silver medal at SEA Games 2025 — a painful result given their dominant first-half performance, but one that still reflects a strong tournament overall.
Vietnam’s triumph marked another major milestone in their regional rise, while Thailand will take pride in their fighting spirit and attacking quality throughout the competition.
Credit Photo : FA Thailand
