Thailand survive Singapore fightback to seal ASEAN Cup final

Thailand advanced to the ASEAN Cup 2026 final despite losing 2-1 to Singapore in the second leg of their semi-final at Rajamangala National Stadium on Tuesday (August 18, 2026).

A 3-1 victory at Jalan Besar Stadium in the opening leg proved decisive, giving Thailand a 4-3 aggregate win.

World No. 94 Thailand hosted 148th-ranked Singapore in the 8pm kick-off, with the visitors needing to overcome a two-goal deficit.

Patrik Gustavsson created Thailand’s first opportunity in the fourth minute, driving forward before seeing his left-footed shot blocked.

Singapore threatened from a free-kick in the 29th minute, but Kampol Pathomakkakul comfortably gathered Ilhan Fandi’s right-footed effort.

Thailand appeared to have taken the lead three minutes later after winning possession in midfield. Worachit Kanitsribampen released Seksan Ratree, who put the ball into the net but was ruled offside.

Sarach Yooyen then crossed for Teerasak Poeiphimai in the 37th minute, although the striker’s header went wide.

Singapore strike before half-time

Singapore took a 1-0 lead in the 45th minute. Kampol came out to intercept a long ball, but it fell to Harhys Stewart, who sent his shot into the net.

Thailand almost equalised in the 55th minute when Wanchai Jarunongkran delivered a lofted pass towards Seksan, whose close-range attempt went narrowly wide.

The hosts drew level from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute after Ryhan Stewart fouled Wanchai inside the area. Kakana Khamyok converted the penalty to make it 1-1 on the night and 4-2 on aggregate.

Singapore regained the lead three minutes later when Ryhan collected a loose ball and fired home for 2-1.

Thailand came close again in the 80th minute when Kakana released Teerasak. Goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud pushed the striker’s shot against the post before the ball went behind.

Singapore held on for a 2-1 victory, but Thailand’s first-leg advantage secured a 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the final.

Thailand to host opening leg of final

Thailand will face the winner of the Vietnam-Malaysia semi-final in the opening leg of the final at Rajamangala National Stadium on Saturday (August 22, 2026) at 8pm. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/sport/40069380

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, while the match will be shown live on the TrueVisions Now application.

Thailand’s starting XI

1 – Kampol Pathomakkakul (goalkeeper)
3 – Pansa Hemviboon
4 – Manuel Tom Bihr
5 – Seksan Ratree
6 – Sarach Yooyen (captain)
10 – Worachit Kanitsribampen
14 – Teerasak Poeiphimai
15 – Narubadin Weerawatnodom
17 – Picha Autra
24 – Wanchai Jarunongkran
25 – Patrik Gustavsson