VietNamNet Bridge – With the previous four consecutive victories without conceding any goals, title favourites Thailand proved their strength at the AFF Suzuki Cup 2016 and quickly took a 1-0 lead against the hosts in the final’s first leg at Pakansari Stadium in Bogor, Indonesia on December 14.

Indonesian players cheerful upon their 2-1 win over title favourites Thailand in the first leg of the AFF Suzuki Cup 2016 final on December 14.

A win was in the hands of the Thai players, but the match changed rapidly in the second half, as hosts Indonesia strengthened attacks to come from behind and beat their strong opponents 2-1 at home.

Thai Captain Teerasil Dangda opened the scoring for the visitors in the 33rd minute with a header from a left-wing long pass.

However, with tireless effort, the hosts scored two consecutive goals within only five minutes in the second half.

Rizky Pora punished Thailand’s mistake in the 65th minute with an equaliser. He cut the pass by a Thai player and fired a shot outside the penalty area on the left. The ball hit the back of a Thai defender and converted into a goal.

Five minutes later, Indonesia were given a free kick from the right wing. Hansamu Yama made a jump and headed a devilish goal to take his home team the 2-1 lead.

Inspired by the lead, Coach Alfred Riedl’s players strengthened attacks to widen the gap, but they did not succeed in converting any additional goals.

The 2-1 win gives Indonesia a big advantage before the second leg, scheduled to be held in Thailand on Saturday to decide the tournament’s champions.

Nhan Dan