Vietnam retained the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Championship by defeating Thailand 4-2 on aggregate in the final. The decisive second leg in Hanoi ended in a 2-2 draw at My Dinh National Stadium, witnessed by approximately 38,646 spectators [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
Vietnam had gained the upper hand in the first leg on August 22, 2026, with a 2-0 win away in Bangkok [4]. Two own goals by Thailand’s goalkeeper Chatchai Budprom and defender Wanchai Jarunongkran played a significant role in Vietnam’s aggregate success [1, 2, 3, 5]. Thailand also scored twice in the second leg through Yotsakon Burapha and Wanchai Jarunongkran [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
Shortly after the second half began, Thailand missed a penalty when Kakana Khamyok sent the ball over the bar [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Thailand’s squad was youthful due to the unavailability of several senior players [5]. Despite the loss, Thailand’s coach Anthony Hudson praised his team’s effort, saying, “I have a huge amount of pride... Congratulations to Vietnam. They obviously had a very, very strong tournament” [5].
Vietnam’s Brazil-born winger Do Hoang Hen (Hendrio) played an important role in the campaign. Speaking after the victory, he said, “It's something amazing. I waited for this moment a long time. It's a pleasure. I feel so proud. We did a very good job. I worked so hard to be here and I'm very happy I can help the team to get this cup here in Vietnam in Hanoi” [1].
The win marks Vietnam’s fourth AFF Championship title in the tournament’s 30-year history [1, 2, 3, 4]. The team now holds the trophy again after lifting it previously.
Vietnam and Thailand will look ahead to their upcoming international fixtures following the finals played on August 22 and 26.
