From Ahmad Nazrin Syahmi Mohamad Arif
JAKARTA, Oct 5 (Bernama) -- Indonesia clinched the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 title after edging Thailand 4-2 on penalties following a pulsating 2-2 draw in the final at Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Stadium here, tonight.
The stadium was transformed into a sea of red as the hosts, coached by John Herdman, overcame Anthony Hudson’s Thailand in a dramatic contest watched by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Both teams went into the break level at 0-0 after an energetic opening half in which they created several dangerous opportunities but were unable to find a breakthrough.
Indonesia had a golden chance in the 69th minute but Mitchell Baker, who was unmarked in a promising position, fired wide of the left post.
Thailand’s task became harder in the 81st minute when Nicholas Mickelson was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Ole Romeny.
Indonesia capitalised three minutes later when Dean James’ free-kick took a deflection off Iklas Sanron and flew into the Thai net, leaving goalkeeper Saranon Anuin rooted to the spot.
However, Iklas atoned for the own goal in the 87th minute, finishing Seksan Ratree’s delivery to force the match into extra time.
Thailand then appeared to be heading for victory when substitute Peeradol Chamrasamee scored on the counter-attack in the 111th minute, beating Indonesian goalkeeper Emil Audero with a well-struck effort.
But the Garuda refused to surrender and restored parity four minutes from the end of extra time when Rizky Ridho’s cross fell kindly for Elkan Baggott, whose composed finish struck the crossbar before crossing the line.
In the shoot-out, Sarach Yooyen struck Thailand’s third attempt against the post, while Nattapong Sayriya’s fourth kick was saved by Audero, allowing Indonesia to seal a memorable 4-2 victory.
Earlier, Malaysia secured third place after beating Vietnam 1-0 in the afternoon’s third-place playoff.
-- BERNAMA