Thai women clinch back-to-back title after dramatic penalty shootout win over Vietnam

Thailand faced a rematch of the final group game against Vietnam, opponent that outclassed them both technically and tactically when the sides met in the final group game. Both sides had won the competition two times previously, and the winner would be crowned as the most successful team in the history of the competition. A final that would dwarf all others was at hand, and the tension was palpable.

Thailand wasted no time in making their presence felt in the showdown. The side had been brilliant from set pieces throughout the tournament, a trait that had not deserted them when it truly mattered. Silawan Intanee’s fantastic delivery from a corner took a touch of Vietnam defender Chuong Thi Kieu before nestling in the back of the net, giving Thailand the lead after only six minutes. 

Thailand continued to attack, unwilling to settle for a measly advantage; another trait that had typified Spencer Prior’s side throughout the tournament. However, as Vietnam continued to threaten, Thailand receded further and further into their own half, their lead hanging by a thread.

Thailand came into the second half with a one-goal lead, feeling the strain of Vietnamese pressure. The Thai defense remained resolute to deny their opponents on a number of occasions, with some almost miraculous blocks and tackles to keep their advantage intact. The post denied Vietnam with 20 minutes remaining, and an equaliser seemed to be on the cards. It came six minutes from the end. The Thai goalkeeper failed to hold on to a deflected cross, parrying the ball into the path of Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet for a simple tap in. Penalty kicks would be needed to separate the two teams.

The score was level after five kicks each, leading to “sudden death” penalties. Pressure got the better of Rattikan Thongsombut on the first sudden death kick, giving Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Lieu a chance to win the game. A save from the goalkeeper rebounded, inching across the goal line before being scrambled clear a second time. Replays show that the decision was simply too close to call, but the referee cut the Vietnamese celebrations short and handed Thailand a lifeline. Thailand managed to take full advantage of their good fortune, eventually running out 6-5 winners in the showpiece event and garnering the title of the most successful women’s team in the history of South East Asian football.