As predicted by experts, the second leg of the final under the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF)’s Suzuki Cup 2016 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok on December 17 saw the home team make a comeback from the first leg 1-2 defeat to beat Indonesia 2-0 and claim the trophy.

After being defeated by the guests in the first leg, Thailand only needed a 1-0 win last night to climb on top however they did much more than that, showing the strength of the region's top powerhouse.

The home side pushed high offensive play right from the start, while the visitors executed a rather inadequate defensive style.

In the third minute, Indonesia’s net was shaken by a kick from Prathum Chuthong but the goal was denied as the player scored from offside.

Over the next 30 minutes, Thailand played quite flexibly with cooperation combined with long balls into the box.

In the 37th minute, after a quick attack, Thailand opened the scoring. Indonesian player Fachruddin Aryanto cleared the ball, passing it straight into Siroch Chatthong, which was then rebounded into the net.

Coach Kiatisak Senamuang’s players slowed down the game’s speed after the 1-0 lead, but only three minutes into the second half, Chatthong again netted in another goal from Chanathip Songkrasin’s clever pass, putting the home team ahead.

Having nothing to lose, the visitors strengthened attacks for a goal but their efforts were unsuccessful. Their impatience and lack of composure only added to their frustration. Given an opportunity, Teerasil Dangda was still unable to convert a penalty to goal in the last ten minutes.

The 2-0 lead remained until the final whistle giving the tie 3-2 win on aggregate for Thai players after two legs. Thailand successfully defended their title at the tournament. It is also the record fifth AFF Suzuki Cup title for Thailand.

Nhan Dan