Thai paper urges Vietnamese fans not to fault hosts over disallowed goal in loss to Philippines

The newspaper acknowledged that Vietnam’s frustration was understandable but misplaced.

“They criticized the linesman, mistaking her for a Thai referee when she was actually Laotian,” Thairath wrote. “They even criticized the host nation.”

The newspaper highlighted social media comments accusing Thailand of orchestrating a “dirty match,” with some users asking how the hosts could be proud of a “scandalous” SEA Games. It featured a counter-argument from a Thai supporter: “It’s okay to be angry at the referee. But don’t blame the host country. I don’t understand why you’re blaming the host country. The referee is Laotian, not Thai.”

The controversy centers on a 29th-minute incident during the SEA Games women’s football final between Vietnam and the Philippines at Chonburi Stadium on Wednesday. A legitimate goal by Vietnamese midfielder Nguyen Bich Thuy was flagged offside by Laotian assistant referee Phutsavan Chanthavong, a decision upheld by Australian main referee Rebecca Durcau.

Slow-motion replays confirmed that Thuy was approximately 2 m onside, comfortably behind the last Philippine defender, Hali Long. However, unlike sepak takraw, volleyball or futsal, SEA Games football does not utilize VAR due to cost constraints, making the referee’s decision final.

The match ended in a 6-5 penalty shootout loss for Vietnam after a 0-0 draw, snapping their streak of four consecutive gold medals. It was Vietnam’s fourth loss in a row to the Philippines.

Another major Thai outlet, Daily Newstook a different angle. It described the Philippines’ first-ever SEA Games gold medal win as “extraordinary, but not surprising,” and did not mention of the disallowed goal of Vietnam.

The newspaper focused on the Philippines’ rapid rise, citing their 2022 Women’s AFF Cup title and 2023 World Cup appearance as evidence of their progress.

Tensions have been high regarding the 33rd SEA Games’ organization issues. Host Thailand has faced scrutiny for various blunders, including an incorrect map of Vietnam displayed during the opening ceremony that forced an official apology. Additionally, officiating in martial arts events has led to physical altercations between delegations and referees.