Thai Football Apologize for Brawls in SEA Games Final Against Indonesia

(CTN News) – On Wednesday, Thai football chiefs apologized for the brawls marred the South East Asia Games final against Indonesia.

Following four red cards and two all-in brawls, Indonesia beat Thailand 5-2 in the under-23 match on Tuesday after extra time.

According to the Thai Football Association, the incidents at Phnom Penh’s Olympic Stadium damaged the national team’s image, especially the coaching staff’s involvement.

Thai Football Association Apologizes for Brawls in SEA Games Final, Pledges Punishments

“I would like to express my disappointment and apologize for the chaotic incident that happened off pitch,” the Thai Football Association said.

“Especially the staff and coach, who represent all Thais, they need to keep a cool head under pressure every minute of the day.

“A committee will investigate all those involved and there will be punishment, there will be no protection for those involved. The investigation will start as soon as the team gets home.”

When the referee blew his whistle close to full time, Indonesia’s players and coaches celebrated, thinking they’d won 2-1.

The whistle was for a free kick, and Yotsakorn Burapha scored an equalizer that sparked violent clashes between the benches.

During extra time, stadium security had to break up another flurry of shoves, punches, and kicks between coaches and players from both sides.

Indra Sjafri didn’t hold grudges after leading Indonesia to SEA Games gold for the first time since 1991, a feat celebrated by President Joko Widodo.

“The match was tight,” he told MetroTV.

“Don’t blame each other. This was a great final.”

Football has a huge following in Indonesia, but it’s had a rough eight months after a stadium disaster last October killed 135 people.

In a row over Israel’s participation in this year’s under-20 World Cup, FIFA stripped the nation from hosting the event.

“Let this be the momentum for Indonesian football to come back,” Sjafri said.

As for Keo Sareth, secretary general of the Cambodian Football Federation (FFC), he was equally forgiving.

“They’ve got no problem with us, and we’ve hosted the match completely and successfully.”

“All problems on the pitch will be handled by match officials, and they’re making a report to send to Asian Football Confederation (AFC), so they may face penalties for code of ethics and disciplinary.”

Reuters reports the AFC is investigating the incident.

“The AFC is disappointed with the disorderly behavior at the SEA Games football final,” a spokesperson said.

“The AFC emphasizes fair play, mutual respect, and sportsmanship, and takes a zero tolerance approach to violence…”