Thailand, 1 August 2026 – Vietnam futsal team produced an outstanding performance to hold Russia to a 2-2 draw in their opening match of the Continental Futsal Championship 2026, currently taking place in Thailand.
Russia dominated much of the first half, showcasing the quality that has established them as one of the world’s leading futsal nations. Their superiority was rewarded in the 10th minute when goalkeeper Zurab initiated a swift passing move. Team captain Antoshkin then delivered a perfectly weighted assist for Pavlov, who calmly finished past Vietnamese goalkeeper Nghiem Van Y to give Russia a deserved 1-0 lead.
Vietnam, however, returned from the break with renewed energy and a far more aggressive approach. The momentum shifted dramatically in the 24th minute when Gia Hung delivered an excellent pass from a corner kick on the left flank, allowing Thinh Phat to unleash a superb finish that leveled the score at 1-1.
The Vietnamese side continued to press and completed a remarkable turnaround just minutes later. Gia Hung intercepted the ball in midfield before threading a precise pass into the path of Thai Huy, whose trademark left-footed strike flew into the back of the net, giving Vietnam a surprising 2-1 advantage.
Russia responded quickly, demonstrating the composure and quality expected from one of the sport’s traditional powerhouses. In the 27th minute, goalkeeper Zurab pushed forward to support the attack, firing a shot that created chaos inside Vietnam’s penalty area. Ponkratov reacted first to keep the move alive before setting up Pigorov, who made no mistake from close range to restore parity at 2-2.
Both teams continued to create scoring opportunities during an entertaining closing period, but neither side could find a winning goal. Vietnam defended resolutely under sustained pressure, while also threatening on the counterattack whenever opportunities arose.
The match eventually ended in a 2-2 draw, with Vietnam earning an impressive result against one of the strongest teams in international futsal. The performance provides another encouraging sign for the Vietnamese squad as they continue their preparations against elite opposition at the Continental Futsal Championship 2026.
VSN/RPT
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