KUALA LUMPUR (15 August 2017) – Indonesia clawed back from a goal down to hold defending champions Thailand to a 1-1 draw in the SEA Games Group B football match at the Shah Alam Stadium today.
Chaiyawat Buran had earlier fired the 15-time biennial games champions ahead with a 14th minute goal following a poor judgement by Indonesian goalkeeper Kurniawan Kartika Ajie.
The early lead had inspired the 2015 Singapore SEA Games gold medallist into an attacking game but their strikers constantly denied at goal attempts by a fortified Indonesian defensive line.
After a first half performance of near-misses from both quarters, it was Indonesia who dictated terms after the interval with quick counter attacks. Febri Hariyadi’s 47th minute thundering drive swayed slightly off the mark st sign of an Indonesian resurgence.
Coached by Luis Milla Aspas, the Indonesian were right on track 13 minutes later when they were awarded a penalty following a foul on Osvaldo Ardilles Haayy by a Thai defender. Midfielder Septian David Maulana made no mistake from the spot in the 60th minute to equalise 1-1 much to the jubilation of 2,000 Indonesian fans.
“This is not a result we were looking for as we arrived here with the mission of winning all our matches. Today’s draw was uncalled for and much of it is due to our defensive mistake,” said an upset Thailand’s team manager Watanya Wongopasi.
Indonesian head coach Milla, however, praised his players for giving their full commitment against an opposition considered by many as favourites to retain the gold medal.
“It has been a great start for us here against a strong team. I am proud of my players for coming back strongly to earn this draw. I hope we will continue with this kind of performance,” said Milla.
Thailand’s next match is against Timor Leste on Thursday (Aug 17) at the Selayang Stadium whilst Indonesia meets Philippines at the Shah Alam Stadium.
