Nguyễn Hai Long scores opening goal for Vietnam in AFF Cup final

Nguyễn Hai Long scored the opening goal for the Vietnam national football team at Rajamangala Stadium, providing a crucial advantage in the first leg of the AFF Cup final against Thailand. The goal helped Vietnam secure a 2-0 lead heading into the second leg, which is scheduled to take place at Mỹ Đình Stadium.

Following the match, Hai Long shared a tribute to his late mentor, Coach Phan Thanh Hùng, who recently passed away from liver cancer. Hai Long expressed that he felt the goal was a blessing from his former coach, who had been instrumental in launching his professional career at Than Quảng Ninh. The midfielder's performance is seen as a pivotal factor in Vietnam's pursuit of defending their championship title.