Thailand Reaches AFF Cup Final Despite 2-1 Loss to Singapore

Thailand has secured a spot in the 2026 ASEAN Championship final, overcoming a 2-1 second-leg semifinal loss to Singapore. The aggregate score saw Thailand advance 4-3, building on their decisive 3-1 victory in the first leg played in Singapore.

Despite an early initiative from Thailand's Sarach Yooyen and a strong response from Singapore's Jacob Mahler, the match remained goalless for a significant period. Singapore eventually broke the deadlock in the 45th minute with a goal from Haryhs Stewart, taking a 1-0 lead into halftime.

Following the break, Singapore continued to press, but Thailand managed to equalize in the 61st minute through Kakana Khamyok's penalty. However, Singapore quickly regained the lead in the 66th minute when Thai defender Pansa Hembivoon scored an own goal, making the score 2-1. Singapore pushed for a third goal to overturn the aggregate deficit but was unable to score further.

Thailand will now await the outcome of the other semifinal between Vietnam and Malaysia. They are scheduled to play the two-legged final on August 22 and August 26.