Thailand 2–0 Malaysia: War Elephants Take Control of 2026 ASEAN Cup Group B

BANGKOK, Aug 1 — Seven-time champions Thailand handed Malaysia their first defeat of the 2026 ASEAN Cup tonight, securing a 2–0 victory in a pivotal Group B clash at the Rajamangala Stadium.

The hosts broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when striker Yotsakon Burapha calmly converted a penalty following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review. The spot-kick was awarded after Malaysian centre-back Muhammad Ubaidullah Shamsul Fazili brought down Kakana Khamyok inside the penalty box.

Thailand doubled their lead in the 56th minute after substitute Worachit Kanitsribumphen delivered a precise pass to an unmarked Teerasak Poeiphimai, who finished clinically past Malaysian goalkeeper Muhammad Azri Ab Ghani.

Despite early opportunities created by Malaysian forwards Paulo Josué and Muhammad Syafiq Ahmad, Thailand goalkeeper Kampon Phatomakkakul produced several key saves, while defenders Nattapong Sayriya and Manuel Tom Bihr maintained a disciplined defensive line to preserve the clean sheet.

The result moves Thailand to the top of Group B on goal difference with six points from two matches, level on points with Malaysia, who have played one game more. Myanmar and the Philippines remain tied on three points, while Laos sit at the bottom without a point.

Malaysia will conclude their Group B campaign on August 8 against the Philippines at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras, needing a positive result to secure safe passage to the semi-finals.

–NMT