Vietnam and Thailand secure opening wins in FIFA ASEAN Cup Group B

The 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup Group B Division 1 has commenced with significant developments for Vietnam and Thailand. Vietnam secured a 1-0 opening victory against the Philippines, thanks to a goal by Nguyen Dinh Bac. However, the win was overshadowed by a serious injury to captain and star striker Nguyen Xuan Son. Medical examinations confirmed a hamstring tear, which is expected to sideline the 29-year-old for four to six weeks, effectively ending his participation in the tournament.

Thailand also started strongly with a 4-0 win over Pakistan, led by a hat-trick from Teerasak Poeiphimai. Thailand's coach, Anthony Hudson, noted that star player Chanathip Songkrasin was rested during the opener to ensure he is at peak fitness for the upcoming crucial match against Vietnam.

Vietnam and Thailand are both currently at the top of Group B with three points each. Their head-to-head match is scheduled for September 29, a fixture that will likely determine the group leader. Meanwhile, in other sporting news, Vietnamese athletes are competing in the ASIAD 2026, with the national delegation currently ranked 21st in the medal standings.