Bangkok is in the midst of its rainy season, with weather conditions fluctuating considerably in recent days. During three days in the Thai capital, Vietnamese reporters observed intermittent showers, mostly in the evening, with rain often stopping briefly before returning.
During the Vietnam national football team's training session at Rajamangala Stadium on August 21, rain began falling shortly after the team completed its session.
Rain is forecast to be a major concern on match day, with Bangkok facing a 90 percent chance of showers from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The likelihood is highest around 3 p.m., by which time dark clouds have already gathered over the capital.
Even if the rain clears before the 8 p.m. kickoff, waterlogged patches could remain on the Rajamangala Stadium pitch, potentially making ball control and passing more difficult.
Four days earlier, heavy rain affected Thailand’s 1-2 semifinal loss to Singapore at Rajamangala, with the wet pitch hampering passing and ball control.
Similar conditions could challenge both Thailand and Vietnam in the final, potentially making long balls, aerial play and set pieces more important.
Vietnam have also had plenty of experience playing in difficult weather. Kim Sang-sik’s side faced rainy conditions against Singapore and in both semifinal legs with Malaysia, leaving the team well prepared for another wet match.
Coach Kim Sang-sik and his players are determined to secure an advantage in the first leg at Rajamangala Stadium before hosting Thailand at My Dinh Stadium four days later.
