Thailand quickly adjusted their fast-paced attack, subsequently dominating the second set 25-13 and the third set 25-18.

Captain Thanh Thuy (number 3) and Dang Thi Hong (number 10) were seen in tears, covering their faces after the thrilling 5-set match at Huamark Indoor Stadium, Bangkok, on 15/12/2023.

Back on the bench, Thanh Thuy remained overcome with emotion. She and her teammates had just played the most dramatic SEA Games final in history. At one point, they had one hand on the gold medal, only to let it slip away.

For over 20 years, Vietnam has only managed to reach the runner-up position in the region. Meanwhile, Thailand has achieved continental prominence, securing 16 SEA Games gold medals, including 14 consecutive titles.

Despite this, Vietnam has shown significant improvement in recent years, notably causing a shockwave by defeating Thailand at SEA V.League 2025.

This recent success boosted the confidence of coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet's players as they entered the SEA Games 33 final.

His team also demonstrated peak performance, achieving straight 3-0 victories against Malaysia, Myanmar, and Indonesia in the group stage, followed by a win over the Philippines in the semifinals.

Indeed, Vietnam had a dream start, winning the first set 25-19.

In 11 previous finals, the team had consistently lost to Thailand, winning a total of only 3 sets while losing 33. Eight of those matches ended in a 3-0 sweep for the Land of a Thousand Smiles, with the remaining 3 matches ending 3-1. Vietnam had never won more than one set against this opponent in a SEA Games final.

With their backs against the wall, Vietnam played resiliently, fighting for every point in an extended tug-of-war. At a decisive moment, Thanh Thuy's spike from position 4 hit the Thai block and landed in, concluding the fourth set with a 25-23 victory for Vietnam.

This marked the first time in SEA Games history that Vietnam had won two sets against Thailand in a final.

Volleyball is a popular sport in Thailand. Consequently, a large crowd of fans, including former head coach Kiatisuk Senamuang and Miss Universe 2023 1st runner-up Anntonia Porsild, came to cheer for the host nation.

The deciding set unfolded with a high tempo and extreme tension. Vietnam at one point led 10-5, just five points away from the championship. However, Thailand displayed their resilience and class, persisting in their pursuit.

The drama escalated as Vietnam repeatedly had chances to close out the match. At scores of 17-16, then 22-21, and 23-22, the red-jerseyed women reached match point, holding opportunities to finish but unable to capitalize.

Ultimately, Pimpichaya Kokram served, and the Vietnamese players judged the ball out, opting not to play it. However, the referee ruled the ball in. Thailand won 25-23, concluding the breathtaking final.

By Duc Dong and Hieu Luong