BANGKOK, Aug 1 (Bernama) -- Harimau Malaya suffered their first defeat of the 2026 ASEAN Cup after going down 0-2 to seven-time champions Thailand in a pivotal Group B clash at the Rajamangala Stadium Saturday, a result that reignited the race for top spot in the group.
Both sides began cautiously, with Malaysia creating several promising chances in the opening stages. However, Thailand goalkeeper Kampon Phatomakkakul produced a series of fine saves to deny the visitors the opening goal.
Thailand defenders Nattapong Sayriya and Manuel Tom Bihr also turned in solid performances to keep Malaysian forwards Paulo Josue and Muhammad Syafiq Ahmad quiet throughout the match.
Malaysia's resistance was broken after a costly mistake by centre-back Muhammad Ubaidullah Shamsul Fazili, who brought down Kakana Khamyok inside the penalty box in the 32nd minute. Following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, South Korean referee Kim Woosung awarded Thailand a penalty.
Striker Yotsakon Burapha calmly converted from the spot in the 38th minute to hand the host country a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
Thailand resumed the second half brightly and continued to press forward, creating several opportunities that tested Malaysian goalkeeper Muhammad Azri Ab Ghani.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 56th minute when substitute Worachit Kanitsribumphen delivered a pinpoint pass for the unmarked Teerasak Poeiphimai, who finished clinically to make it 2-0.
Harimau Malaya battled tirelessly to reduce the deficit, but Thailand's defence remained resolute to preserve their clean sheet and secure all three points.
The victory moved Thailand to the top of Group B on goal difference with six points, level with Malaysia but having played one match fewer while Myanmar and the Philippines are tied on three points and Laos remain without a point. The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals.
Malaysia will conclude their Group B campaign on Aug 8 against the Philippines at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras.
-- BERNAMA