Thailand's U19 team staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Malaysia 3-2 in the 2026 ASEAN U19 Championship, securing their place in the next round while officially eliminating Malaysia from the tournament.

The result also handed a significant advantage to Vietnam U19, whose hopes of reaching the semi-finals were greatly strengthened following Thailand's victory.

With the current standings, coach Yutaka Ikeuchi's side remain in pole position among the best second-placed teams.

Vietnam will qualify for the semi-finals under every scenario except one - if Cambodia and Australia play out a draw.

Match summary

Thailand began aggressively, pushing their defensive line high and pressing from the opening minutes.

Malaysia gradually settled into the contest and threatened on several quick counter-attacks before taking the lead in the 15th minute. From a corner kick, Amar Imran rose highest to head home and put the Young Tigers in front.

Thailand responded strongly and equalised six minutes later. After sustained pressure inside the penalty area, Kong Sri converted from close range following a determined attacking move by his teammate.

The game remained fiercely contested, with both sides engaging in numerous physical duels across midfield.

Thailand completed the turnaround in the 43rd minute. Following another attack down the left flank, the ball was cut back into the area where Pirada controlled with his left foot and volleyed into the far corner.

Just as Thailand appeared set to take a lead into the interval, Malaysia struck back deep into first-half stoppage time to level the score at 2-2.

The second half was equally intense, with both teams creating opportunities while frequent fouls and stoppages disrupted the flow of the match.

Malaysia came close on several occasions, including a dangerous corner routine and a missed chance by Tengku Hasyri.

Thailand also squandered a golden opportunity in the 77th minute when a player volleyed wide from close range after a loose ball inside the area.

The decisive moment arrived in the 79th minute when the referee awarded Thailand a penalty after determining that a Malaysian defender had fouled an opponent from behind.

Captain Kong Sri stepped forward and struck a powerful penalty. Although the Malaysian goalkeeper guessed correctly, he was unable to keep the ball out as Thailand took a 3-2 lead.

Tempers flared shortly afterwards as players from both teams became involved in a confrontation following a challenge.

Malaysia pushed forward desperately during the seven minutes of added time, but Thailand held firm.

When the final whistle sounded, players from both sides collapsed onto the pitch with contrasting emotions. Thailand celebrated qualification, while Malaysia's campaign came to an end.

Match timeline

15' - Malaysia take the lead through Amar Imran's header from a corner.

21' - Kong Sri equalises for Thailand after sustained pressure.

43' - Pirada volleys Thailand into a 2-1 lead.

45+3' - Malaysia score a dramatic equaliser before half-time.

79' - Thailand awarded a penalty.

80' - Kong Sri converts from the spot to make it 3-2.

90+7' - Full-time: Thailand 3-2 Malaysia.

Ngoc Huy