"ASEAN Football's El Clasico: Thailand Faces Vietnam in First Leg Final Tonight," headlined Thai Daily News on January 2. The article highlighted Thailand's record of seven titles in 14 tournaments and their quest for a third consecutive championship.
The report noted striker Suphanat Mueanta is unfit to start after recovering from illness, while midfielder Weerathep Pomphan’s availability is uncertain. Suphanat has contributed to eight goals, the most in the tournament, and Weerathep is regarded as the midfield linchpin under coach Masatada Ishii.
Daily News rated Thailand as favourites, citing their FIFA ranking of 97, 17 places above Vietnam. However, they acknowledged challenges, including having less rest time and playing 120 minutes in their December 30 semifinal against the Philippines.
Another major outlet, Siam Sport, highlighted Vietnam’s advantages playing at home, remaining undefeated in the tournament, and showcasing versatile, dangerous attacking play. They also pointed out Thailand's poor away form, losing 1-2 to the Philippines in the first-leg semifinal. However, Thailand's 2-1 win over Vietnam in My Dinh in September 2024 was seen as a morale boost.
The key strength for Thailand, according to the media, is coach Ishii’s tactical expertise, with a 50% win rate since taking charge. "With Ishii's strategy, we can neutralise Vietnam effectively," Siam Sport stated, praising Thailand’s counterattacking threat. The paper predicted a 1-1 draw, warning Vietnam could face difficulties in the second leg at Rajamangala on January 5.
In another piece, Siam Sport lauded Vietnam’s naturalised striker Nguyen Xuan Son, describing him as a "deadly machine" with exceptional physique, versatility, and finishing ability. They credited him as the "final piece" in Vietnam’s pursuit of greater ambitions.
