Vietnam Futsal Team hold Thailand to 3-3 draw in thrilling comeback

Ahead of the clash with hosts Thailand, the Vietnam Futsal Team were in impressive form, having gone unbeaten in their previous three matches: a 2-2 draw with Russia, a 4-1 victory over New Zealand and a 2-1 win against Afghanistan.

On the other side, Thailand were considered Vietnam’s toughest challenge in the tournament. In addition to enjoying home advantage, HLV Rakpol Saenetnam’s side had just been crowned champions of the 2026 AFF Futsal Championship after a 2-1 victory over Indonesia in the final. Thailand had also demonstrated their strength with emphatic 6-0 and 6-1 wins over New Zealand and Afghanistan, respectively, ahead of their meeting with Vietnam.

As expected, the hosts started with determination and immediately applied heavy pressure. In the second minute, Atippong capitalised on a misplaced pass by Trần Thái Huy to open the scoring for Thailand. Just four minutes later, Panut won possession, beat goalkeeper Hồ Văn Ý and doubled Thailand’s lead.

Trailing by two goals, the Vietnam Futsal Team pushed forward in search of a way back into the game. Châu Đoàn Phát and Nguyễn Đa Hải both created notable chances but were unable to convert. However, in the 14th minute, Panut struck again following a quick transition, giving Thailand a 3-0 lead at half-time.

With this result, the Vietnam Futsal Team concluded their campaign at the 2026 Continental Futsal Championship – Thailand unbeaten, drawing 2-2 with Russia, defeating New Zealand 4-1 and Afghanistan 2-1, before holding hosts Thailand to a 3-3 draw. This impressive run against quality opposition is an encouraging sign of the progress made by HLV Diego Raul Giustozzi and his players as they continue preparations for their upcoming major challenges.