Midfielder Vu Phong slammed Vietnam into an early lead with a header after receiving a perfect pass from his teammate Tan Tai in the 39th minute.

Three minutes later, Viet Thang set up the ball for Cong Vinh, who had experienced five AFF Cup matches without a goal, to fire home from a close-range shot.

Thailand picked up in the second half and their efforts were rewarded in the 75th minute. Substitute Ronnachai headed straight at Vietnamese goalie Hong Son who failed to grab the ball. The ball hit the woodwork and then Son’s leg before being deflected into the net.

One minute later, Dangda scored a goal for Thailand, but it was overruled by the referee as it was made in an offside position.

Thailand put mounting pressure on Vietnam, but their counterattacks met strong resistance from Vietnamese defenders.

Goalie Hong Son was in inspired form today, repelling Thai attacks and producing brilliant saves in both halves.

Vietnam will take on Thailand in a return match in Hanoi on December 28.