Thailand Ramps Up Training for AFF Championship Final Against Vietnam

Thailand's national football team is stepping up training ahead of the opening match of the 2026 AFF Championship final against Vietnam. The session on August 20 at BGTC 3 in Pathum Thani province lasted approximately 90 minutes and focused on correcting mistakes and improving game understanding.

Defender Manuel Tom Bihr said: "Both we and Vietnam deserve to be in this position. This is a fitting final matchup. Both teams have worked hard and faced many obstacles to reach this point. It's like climbing a mountain—the path is rough and not paved with rose petals. We're in good form and have good atmosphere. Previous matches may not have been ideal, but we'll focus and prepare well for the remaining two games. Vietnam has a clear playing style and deserves to be in the final. We have two decisive matches left and are working hard to be ready. We're in the final stretch of the competition. We can't predict the outcome, but it's important everyone gives their best. My goal is to focus on these two games, bring out our best potential and form, and fight to claim victory."

Bihr added: "For the opening match, I want all supporters to fill the stadium or come in as large numbers as possible. No matter how many fans attend, everyone plays an important role in strengthening our national team. Come cheer with us and be our 12th player in this match."

Midfielder Segsak Ratri said: "We're trying to recover our bodies well to be prepared. We're learning the coach's tactics, team chemistry, and what we've been working on. We've been together for nearly a month and a half now. Everyone is professional. We hope to secure victories and must recover as quickly as possible."

Segsak continued: "Our goal in these two matches is to take it one game at a time. First, we want to win at home because home advantage is crucial. We want Thai fans to come out and cheer us on in large numbers—it will be our motivation. We will secure the victory."

The AFF Championship final consists of two legs. The first match takes place on August 22 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok with Thailand hosting Vietnam, with kickoff at 8:00 p.m. The second match is scheduled for August 26 at Ho Chi Minh City's Thong Nhat Stadium, also at 8:00 p.m.