Vietnam and Thailand U23 football rivalry heats up for ASIAD 2026

The rivalry between the Vietnam and Thailand U23 national football teams is intensifying ahead of the ASIAD 2026 tournament in Japan. Following Vietnam's recent success, including a victory over Thailand at Rajamangala to secure the SEA Games 33 gold medal, the two sides are set to face off on the continental stage.

Thailand has officially announced its 23-man squad for the tournament, which will be held in the Aichi and Nagoya regions. Coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul has opted for a squad composed entirely of U23 players, omitting three overage slots to focus on younger talent such as Chanapach Buaphan and Thanakrit Chotmuangpak.