Singapore Edge Thailand 2-1 but War Elephants March into ASEAN Final

Singapore secured a historic -1 victory over Thailand at the Rajamangala National Stadium on Tuesday night, but it was not enough to prevent the hosts from advancing to the ASEAN Hyundai Cup final 4-3 on aggregate.

Entering the second leg with a comfortable 3-1 cushion from the first leg, Thailand faced a resilient Lions side determined to overturn the deficit. Singapore broke the deadlock in the 45th minute when Harhys Stewart found the back of the net, giving the visitors a glimmer of hope just before the halftime whistle.

The War Elephants responded under pressure in the second half. In the 61st minute, Kakana calmly converted a penalty to level the match at 1-1, restoring Thailand's multi-goal aggregate cushion. However, Singapore refused to back down. Just four minutes later, a defensive mishap led to an own goal by Thai defender Pansa Hemviboon, putting Singapore back ahead 2-1 on the night.

Despite late pressure, Singapore could not find the crucial third goal needed to force extra time. While the win marks the Lions' first victory over Thailand since 2012, Thailand's aggregate advantage ensures their spot in the final.