The ASEAN Cup 2026 has concluded, and from a fair perspective, both Thailand and Vietnam achieved their respective goals. For Vietnam, this tournament marked another significant success. The "Golden Star Warriors" successfully defended their ASEAN Cup title, a first in their history, securing their fourth regional championship after previous wins in 2008, 2018, and 2024.

Vietnam lifted the championship cup after drawing Thailand 2-2 in the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 final at My Dinh Stadium, Hanoi on the evening of August 26. *Photo: Duc Dong*

This triumph highlights the wisdom of Vietnam's investment in temporarily suspending its national league. This decision allowed the best players to fully dedicate themselves to the ASEAN Cup, fostering an environment for optimal performance. Furthermore, Vietnam shifted from its earlier "extreme nationalism" policy, opting for a more direct approach: naturalizing foreign players, particularly those from Brazil. This strategy notably strengthened the national team.

Regardless of external opinions, the clear strategy of the Vietnam Football Federation is admirable. They effectively identified the team's deficiencies in physical attributes and individual skills, then proactively sought solutions. It is difficult to fault Vietnam for this approach. Their citizenship laws facilitate naturalization more readily than those in Thailand, simplifying the process. When a path offers tangible success for a nation, it is a choice many would likely make.

Do Hoang Hen (number 10) passes the ball during Vietnam's 2-2 draw with Thailand in the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 final at My Dinh Stadium, Hanoi on the evening of August 26. *Photo: Duc Dong*

Conversely, the Thailand national team pursued a policy of "reaching beyond ASEAN." For the first time, Thailand fielded what was essentially a "B team" in this tournament. Judged against its initial objective, this can also be considered a success. Coach Anthony Hudson notably navigated immense pressure, guiding a mixed Thai squad to the final. While the team's performance in some matches caused dissatisfaction among Thai fans, the overall outcome did not harm the team. Crucially, many young players emerged, demonstrating their potential as future key national team members.

In the final, every Thai player displayed passion. Drawing Vietnam 2-2 away from home, and coming close to victory, indicates a satisfactory performance. Therefore, assessing his work based on the assigned task, coach Hudson achieved his goal.

Attention now turns to the upcoming "FIFA ASEAN Cup" in Indonesia, less than a month away. The Football Association of Thailand has clearly stated its expectation for the team to commit at the highest level, as the tournament aligns with FIFA Days. This scheduling ensures that player call-ups will not be a major issue, as clubs are obligated by FIFA regulations to release players. This presents an ideal opportunity for Thailand to settle scores and address any lingering doubts regarding Vietnam's strength.

Madam Pang encourages coach Anthony Hudson during the award ceremony after the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 final at My Dinh Stadium, Hanoi on the evening of August 26. *Photo: Duc Dong*

The critical question remains: can the Thailand national team, with its strongest squad, truly overcome Vietnam and its naturalized Brazilian players? This is a challenge that needs verification. In the recent ASEAN Cup, Thailand prioritized developing young talent, while Vietnam mobilized its full strength, even pausing its national league for preparation. The FIFA ASEAN Cup offers entirely different conditions. However, a concern about player call-ups persists, despite clear FIFA regulations. When national team squads are announced, major clubs sometimes present numerous reasons for players to withdraw at the last minute. This scenario is frequently observed in Thai football, where large clubs often wield more power than the national team, a trend evident time and again.

Xuan Binh (according to Thairath)