Thai men win football gold at SEA Games

Goalkeeper Muhammad Haziq Nadzli of Malaysia punches the ball to score on his own net in the SEA Games' football final between Malaysia and Thailand at the Shah Alam Stadium, Shah Alam, Malaysia, Tuesday night. /REUTERS PHOTO / Lai Seng Sin

The Thai men's national football team defended their crown in the SEA Games final, thanks to an own goal by the Malaysian goalkeeper.

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Thai men win football gold at SEA Games

The Thai men's national football team successfully defended their crown in the Southeast Asian Games in the final match with Malaysia at the Shah Alam Stadium in Selangor State, Malaysia, Tuesday night.

The only score in the game resulted from an own goal by Malaysia's goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli, who was trying to block a Thai corner kick in the 38th minute as his punch sent the rain-soaked ball into the net behind him.

Thailand's football team players celebrate on the podium after defeating Malaysia / AFP PHOTO / MANAN VATSYAYANA

In the first 30 minutes of the game, Malaysia appeared to depend on defence, long passes and corner kicks.

The own goal put more pressure on the host in front of about 80,000 cheering compatriots in the stadium. Seats for Thai fans were limited at 5,000.

In the second half, both sides exchanged attacks as Thailand tried to keep pressure on Malaysia and limit their opponent's chances to equalise.

Malaysia's football coach Ong Kim Swee sits after losing to Thailand during their men's football final match / AFP PHOTO / MOHD RASFAN