Thailand Crowned Kings of SEA Games Football for Record 14th Time

THAILAND UPDATED. Thailand clinched the men’s football gold medal of the 2013 Myanmar SEA Games with a collected 1-0 win over Indonesia in front of a vociferous crowd of 3,150 at Zeyarthiri Stadium last night. A touch of Thai magic from playmaker Pokklaw Anan put through Sarawat Masuk, who produced a deft flick over Indonesian goalkeeper Kurnia Meiga to score the winning goal in the 21st minute of the match. With the win, Thailand extend their record to 14 gold medals in the competition.

Before kickoff, after they had belted out with gusto their respective national anthems, both sets of fans were creating a din with their horns and cheer. This brought a real cup final atmosphere for arguably the showpiece event of the Games, even though it was played in a vastly empty stadium.

The Indonesian fans might have been the louder of two with the aid of their drums, but they must have also quietly known that the last time Indonesia had beaten Thailand in a SEA Games final was way back in the 1991 Manila games. That was also the last time that record gold medal winners Thailand had been defeated in the final of the men’s competition. Following that, the Thais went on an unprecedented run of eight straight gold medals, before a resurgent Malaysia put a stop to that run by winning the last two editions.

Now the Changsuk, or Thai War Elephants, were hungry to reclaim their crown. Favorites coming into the game, especially after their earlier 4-1 victory against the same opponents in the group stage in Yangon, they were in control of the game from the early stages and it came as no surprise when they took the lead after 20 minutes.

Right winger Sarawut made a lightning burst down the wing and played a brilliant one-two with Pokklaw, which played him through behind the Indonesian backline with an excellent pass. After receiving the ball, the Muangthong United player flicked the ball over onrushing Indonesian keeper, with it dropping just under the crossbar, to give the Thais a deserved lead.

Despite their silky passing which allowed them to win most of the possession in the first half, the Thais did not always have it their own way. Indonesia was finding joy down the flanks through their speedy wingers and forcing the Thais into conceding needless free kicks in the Thai defensive third. But Garuda Muda, or the Young Garudas, could not make the most of the dead ball opportunities handed to them and went into the break a goal behind.

Thailand emerged out of the halftime interval happy to sit back and let Garuda Muda come at them, and the Garuda Muda did give them a couple of scares, most notably when Rizki Ramdani’s shot on the turn from the edge of the box was deflected just narrowly wide of the far post in the 75th minute.

But as the fourth official signaled four minutes of added time, Thai fans sensed victory was just around the corner. In truth, despite the second half onslaught from the Indonesians, Thailand’s one-goal advantage was never seriously troubled. In the end, the Indonesian siege could find no gaps in the Thai fortress of blue defenders and with an acrobatic bicycle-kick clearance from one of the Thai defenders, the referee blew the final whistle to signal the return of Thailand to the top of SEA Games football.

“We worked hard and selected the right players for our team,” explained Thai coach Kiatisuk Senamuang, when asked what was the secret to the team’s triumph. “We have been training together for one year since January.”

Indonesian coach Rahmad Darmawan felt that his team was just short of luck to snatch the gold from the Thais on the day.

“Today we did not play badly and in the second half we dominated possession and had chances,” said the Indonesian coach. “We were unlucky and just could not finish.”

As for his counterpart, the legendary Thai striker, nick-named “Zico” for his goal-scoring prowess, can now add to the four SEA Games gold medals he already won between 1993 and 1999 as part of the Changsuk.

“This is very exciting for me because the four before were as a player and now this is my first as a head coach,” added the 40-year old.

“I feel very proud of our boys and for our country.” 
27seagames2013.com

Bronze on Singapore Young Lions’ Minds

SINGAPORE UPDATED. Following their 1-0 semi-final loss to Thailand in the SEA Games football competition, the Singapore Under-23 boys who did not play in Thursday’s match at Zeyarthiri Stadium took a morning practice session at the Lewe training field.

Several may fancy their chances of being named in the starting XI for the bronze-medal match tonight against Malaysia, with coach Aide Iskandar open to the possibility of blooding the bench-warmers, although he insists the final line-up is still under consideration.

According to him, it was still important for the Young Lions to return home with a medal and playing Malaysia will give the players extra motivation. Only five days ago, the two sides fought out a 1-1 draw in their Group A match. And both teams will need to shrug off the disappointment of losing their semi-finals to contest for the minor prize.

Said Aide: “The players don’t want to have travelled all the way here to go home empty-handed.

“They are still feeling a bit down from losing to Thailand, but they will need to shrug that off and start feeling the hunger again for a medal.”

Ong Kim Swee’s Harimau Muda will arguably be more fatigued, as this game will be their fifth match in eight days — it showed in their lethargic loss on Thursday to Indonesia on penalties.

As Ong told TODAY: “Singapore have the advantage because we have just finished a mentally-sapping game against Indonesia that went into extra time and penalties ... It’s a question of who is hungrier for the bronze, but I will remind my team that pride is at stake.”

Apart from minor knocks, Aide should be able to field his strongest line-up against Malaysia, although striker Shahfiq Ghani’s place could be under threat. The 21-year-old has had a dismal campaign, failing to reproduce his Malaysian Super League form when he scored six goals for the LionsXII. 

That could mean a second start in Myanmar for 20-year-old Iqbal Hussain, or a reshuffle in the line-up to give the Young Lions more bite up front.

While Aide conceded that Shahfiq has not shown up at this tournament, he refused to confirm the forward’s selection for the bronze-medal tie. “I don’t want to give the game away as I’m sure Ong Kim Swee would also want to win this one,” he said.

Beating Malaysia tonight will mean a repeat of the bronze-medal win from the 2009 Games. The Young Lions failed to advance from the group stage at the 2011 Games. 

Football: Malaysia vs Singapore SEA Games Report

SINGAPORE UPDATED. Singapore’s footballers ended their SEA Games campaign with a bronze medal after defeating Malaysia on Saturday evening in Naypyidaw, Myanmar.

It might not have been the colour they wanted to come home with, but Aide Iskandar’s charges will be happy to have finished their campaign with victory following a limp 1-0 defeat to Thailand in the semi-finals two days earlier.

A late free-kick from their Causeway rivals had denied Singapore a win when they met earlier in Group A, but there was to be no repeat of that 1-1 result the second time round.

Ong Kim Swee’s charges, who crashed out to Indonesia on penalties in their semi-final, had started brightly in front of the 2,000-odd supporters at the Zeyar Thiri Sports Stadium.

D. Saarvindran curled a free-kick wide before Nazmi Faiz slammed a 30-yard drive past the post, with the latter then shooting straight at Izwan Mahbud in the seventh minute.

But the Young Lions took the lead with their first attack. Gabriel Quak, who came in for his first start of the tournament, beat his man on the right and skipper Hariss Harun earned a corner after coming over to help out.

From Zulfahmi Arifin’s resulting delivery, goalkeeper Izham Tarmizi fumbled his catch and Hariss was johnny-on-the-spot to easily tap home the loose ball in the 13th minute.

Just one minute later, Hariss grabbed his second.

The midfielder, playing in an advanced role behind sole striker Sahil Suhaimi, timed a late run into the box perfectly to knock home a left-wing cross from the latter and stun the Malaysians in a double whammy.

Izwan pushed Saarvindran’s curler behind in the 20th minute before comfortably gathering Hazwan Bakri’s attempt from range on the half-hour, but the Malaysians were held at bay with a degree of comfort as they trailed at the break.

Rozaimi, who scored the equaliser in that first match, was brought on in the 51st minute as Malaysia upped the firepower but it was Singapore who threatened more.

Quak saw two efforts saved by Izham and Hafiz Sujad rocked the bar with a piledriver, with the former then lashing another shot over before Sahil wasted a two-on-one break with a poor final ball.

Malaysia made them pay past the hour mark when Afiq Yunos’s headed clearance fell to Thamil Arasu in the box, who was left unmarked to volley the ball into the bottom corner.

Singapore’s profligacy threatened to haunt them as the tide turned, with the yellow shirts looking increasingly dangerous.

Thamil, who was more of a menace in the second half, lashed a fierce strike from a narrow angle not far wide before setting up Nazmi for a volley that was hit straight at Izwan, as Malaysia pushed hard for an equaliser.

Another breakaway was wasted by Singapore when Sahil sprinted clear and beat Izham with his cross, but no team-mate kept up with him.

It was all hands to the pump as Malaysia piled on the pressure in the dying minutes, but it was to no avail.

Izwan was forced to clutch on to another low effort in added time and the custodian was left rooted as Saarvindran’s half-volley flew centimetres wide, leaving the winger clutching his head in disbelief.

That was the last chance for Malaysia as Singapore clung on for victory, perhaps redeeming themselves in part by bagging the bronze over the defending champions.

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Hariss hits brace as Singapore win bronze
The Young Lions captain scored twice in two minutes to stun the Malaysians as they survived a late onslaught from the defending champions to clinch third place. (Photo)
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goal.com

5 Players & 3 Officials of KLFA Receive Punishment for Match-Fixing

MALAYSIA UPDATED. Eight Kuala Lumpur FA members, including five players have been suspended for life from playing football after being found guilty in a match-fixing scandal

The Kuala Lumpur FA has been hit with huge news as the disciplinary Committee of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has decided to punish three officials and five players of Kuala Lumpur after they have been found guilty of match-fixing.


According to Datuk Taufik Adul Razak, the president of the disciplinary committee, there will be no tolerance when it comes to match-fixing scandal.

Speaking to the reporters, he said “When we found out that this issue is still going on here in Malaysia, we decided to follow the principal of prevention is better than cure.”

The three officials that got suspended are including head coach Stanislav Lievkosky, assistant team manager Rosdi Omar and Officer Shaari Jani.
Meanwhile the players that are also suspended for life are Jeremy Danker, Khairul Anuar Shafiee, Hafize Roslee, Fadhulah Yunsifar and Phoo Kai Lun.

The FAM has also informed that they cannot make any appeals and the fate of another seven players who have also being charged will know their fate this 27^th of December.
goal.com 
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Thais Take Football Gold With 1-0 Win Over Indonesia

THAILAND UPDATED. Thailand beat Indonesia 1-0 to take gold in the men's under-23 football final at the Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar on Saturday.

A clever finish by forward Sarawut Masuk on 21 minutes was enough to hold off the hard-working Indonesians -- who were runners-up and silver medalists for the second tournament in a row.

Singapore earlier took bronze after beating defending champions Malaysia 2-1.

The Thais went into the final as hot favourites after trouncing the Indonesians 4-1 in the group stage and going unbeaten for the whole tournament.

But there was to be no repeat of that cake walk in an absorbing, tight encounter.

The Indonesian midfield recovered from a cagey start to take control of the game, but the side lacked conviction in the final third allowing the Thai defence to easily mop up attacks.

For all their endeavour it was the Thais who struck first.

The deadlock was broken on 21 minutes as Thailand's Sarawut Masuk cut through the Indonesian backline with a one-two before chipping the ball exquisitely over the advancing goalkeeper.

Thereafter Thailand appeared content to absorb pressure and launch the occasional counter-attack.

While Indonesia huffed and puffed they carved few clear chances, although the industrious Ramdani Lestaluhu clipped the outside of the post on 75 minutes after a melee in the goal area.

At the final whistle the delighted Thai bench streamed onto the pitch to celebrate with their teammates, while the inconsolable Indonesians sunk to the turf at Naypyidaw's purpose-built Zayar Thiri Stadium.
It was the second narrow SEA Games loss for the Indonesians, who fell on penalties at home to Malaysia in the 2011 final.

The result gives the Thais gold for the first time since 2007.

It also secured a double gold for Thai football after the women's team overcame Vietnam in the final on Friday.

Fiercely contested but little known outside the region, the SEA Games are held every two years, giving athletes from lesser sporting nations a chance of medal glory.

Myanmar's hosting of the Games has been seen as a 'coming out' party for the former junta-ruled nation as it undergoes sweeping reforms.

Thailand leads the medals table with 106 golds with one day of competition to go while the hosts are in second on 84 golds.

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Thailand's Praweenwat Boon Yong celebrates after scoring a penalty for a 1-0 lead against Singapore in the football semifinal during the 27th SEA Games in Naypyidaw's Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Myanmar, on Dec 19, 2013. -- Photo: Kevin Lim
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straitstimes.com
 

Singapore Beat Malaysia 2-1 to Clinch Football Bronze

SINGAPORE UPDATED. A two-minute brace by Hariss Harun against Malaysia gave Singapore's football team a bronze medal at the Myanmar SEA Games on Saturday.

Singapore won bronze after defeating Malaysia 2-1.

Hariss bundled home his first goal with 13 minutes gone, after the Malaysian goalkeeper fluffed his lines at a corner.

The 23-year-old then struck his second goal moments later, following great work down the flanks by Sahil Suhaimi.

Malaysia stepped up after the break and pulled one back after a defensive blunder by Afiq Yunos.

The Tigers could even have levelled at the death, but Izwan Mahbud was alert to the danger.

Singapore held off further attacks to clinch bronze, and give Malaysia their first normal time defeat in 15 SEA Games outings.

Head coach for Singapore U-23s Aide Iskandar said the achievement means little consolation for missing out on the gold, but plans are in place to achieve gold in 2015.

He said: "I believe that with good preparation, we can look forward to a good tournament.

"I think from now on, with this bronze medal, I believe that we should be working towards getting our first gold, because that is the only medal that we have not achieved at this point in time."

Singapore Earn Football Bronze After 2-1 Win Over Malaysia

SINGAPORE UPDATED. Singapore's men's football team clinched the bronze medal at the South-east Asia (SEA) Games in Myanmar, after beating rivals Malaysia 2-1 in their third-place play-off match on Saturday.


A quickfire first-half double by Singapore captain Hariss Harun gave the Young Lions a perfect start, before Malaysia pulled one back through Thamil Arasu.

With this football bronze, Team Singapore's tally for this SEA Games stands at 34 golds, 29 silvers and 45 bronzes.
straitstimes.com
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Kronologi Final Sepak Bola Thailand 1 - 0 Indonesia

INDONESIA UPDATED. Thailand menjuarai SEA Games 2013 setelah mengalahkan Indonesia 1-0 pada partai final cabang sepak bola putra di Stadion Zayyarthiri, Naypyitaw, Sabtu (21/12/2013). Sarawut Masuk menjadi pahlawan Negeri Gajah Putih lewat gol cantiknya pada menit ke-22.

Dengan demikian, Thailand menyabet medali emas turnamen dua tahunan antara negara-negara Asia Tenggara ini dan Indonesia harus puas menyabet medali perak. Perunggu sepak bola diraih Singapura, yang pada laga perebutan medali ini menang 2-1 atas Malaysia.

Sejak awal pertandingan, Thailand, yang mengalahkan Indonesia 4-1 pada babak penyisihan Grup B, langsung mengambil inisiatif menyerang.  Menit kedelapan, pasukan besutan Kiatisuk Senamuang ini sudah memberikan ancaman serius. Melalui kerja sama dari sektor tengah, bola diumpan kepada Pokklaw Anan yang melakukan gocekan sebelum melepaskan tendangan terarah ke pojok kiri gawang. Beruntung Kurnia Meiga sigap menepisnya.

Indonesia memberikan respon yang bagus. Pada menit ke-12, Ramdani Lestaluhu mendapatkan peluang. Meloloskan diri dari kawalan pemain belakang Thailand, Ramdani melepaskan tendangan dari luar kotak penalti. Tetapi si kulit bundar mengarah tepat ke penjaga gawang Kawin Thammasatchanan. Ini merupakan peluang pertama pasukan Garuda Muda.

Thailand terus mendominasi pertandingan. Pada menit ke-19, tim Negeri Gajah Putih ini kembali memberikan tekanan lewat tedangan pojok. Kurnia Meiga tampil sangat cemerlang mengantisipasi bola tendangan sudut yang mengarah ke tiang jauh, karena tangkapannya lengket.

Namun pada menit ke-22, gawang Indonesia jebol lewat sebuah serangan balik Thailand. Sarawut Masuk dengan cerdik memanfaatkan peluangnya ketika menyambut umpan terobosan Thitiphan Puangchan. Setelah mengontrol bola, Sarawut menchip bola untuk memperdaya Kurnia Meiga yang maju untuk menutup pergerakannya. 1-0 untuk Thailand.

Meskipun telah berusaha keras, Indonesia kesulitan menembus pertahanan Thailand, yang bermain sangat rapi dalam laga ini. Bahkan, mereka nyaris menempatkan semua pemainnya di depan kotak penalti ketika kehilangan bola, sehingga Bayu Gatra dan kawan-kawan tak mendapatkan celah untuk menembus kotak penalti.

Sebaliknya, Thailand langsung menebarkan ancaman ketika menguasai bola. Serangan balik Pokklaw dan kawan-kawan patut diwaspadai barisan belakang Indonesia yang digalang Alfin Tuasalamony, Mokhamad Syaifuddin, Manahati Lestusen dan Diego Michiels. Sampai turun minum, skor tetap 1-0 untuk Thailand.

Di awal babak kedua, Indonesia mencoba untuk mengambil kendali permainan. Tetapi lagi-lagi Garuda Muda sulit meruntuhkan tembok pertahanan Thailand, yang masih sangat kokoh untuk ditembus.

Menit ke-60, Indonesia mendapatkan peluang lewat tendangan bebas di depan kotak penalti, menyusul pelanggaran terhadap Fandi Eko Utomo. Tetapi eksekusi Andri Ibo, yang masuk menggantikan Manahati, tak sempurna karena bola tendangannya membentur pagar hidup Thailand.

Indonesia terus memberikan tekanan dan mendapatkan peluang terbaik diperoleh pada menit ke-75 ketika terjadi kemelut di mulut gawang Thailand. Sayang, Ramdani tak sempurna mengeksekusi bola liar. Sempat salah menendang bola sundulan dari pemain belakang Thailand, Ramdani kembali mendapatkan kesempatan lewat tendangan sambil membelakangi gawang. Tetapi si kulit bundar melebar tipis di sisi kiri gawang Kawin.

Di sisa pertandingan, Indonesia terus menggempur pertahanan Thailand, yang selama paruh kedua nyaris tak memberikan ancaman serius ke gawang Kurnia Meiga. Tetapi berbagai upaya tim besutan Rahmad Darmawan ini tak kunjung membuahkan hasil terbaik untuk menyamakan skor, sehingga Garuda Muda harus mengakui keunggulan Thailand dengan skor tipis 1-0.

Dengan demikian, Thailand berhak menyabet medali emas SEA Games ke-27 dan Indonesia kembali harus menelan kekecewaan karena hanya mampu meraih medali perak seperti dua tahun lalu di Palembang. Impian mengulangi kesuksesan 22 tahun silam ketika meraih medali emas harus tertunda.

Susunan pemain

Indonesia: 1-Kurnia Meiga; 26-Alfin Tuasalamony, 29-Mokhamad Syaifuddin, 13-Manahati Lestusen (Andri Ibo 57), 24-Diego Michiels; 11-Dedi Kusnandar, 4-Rizky Pellu (Dendi Santoso 81); 23-Bayu Gatra Sanggiawan, 7-Rizki Ramdani Lestaluhu; 22-Fandi Eko Utomo, 9-Yandi Sofyan Munawar (Ferinando Pahabol 69')
Pelatih: Rahmad Darmawan

Thailand: 26-Kawin Thammasatchanan; 15-Pravinwat Boonyong, 4-Sakolwat Skollah, 3-Theeraton Bunmathan; 24-Krirkrit Thaweekarn, 12-Charyl Champpuis, 10-Pokklaw Anan, 30-Sarawut Masuk (Kesarat 87'), 7-Thitiphan Puangchan; 9-Adisak Kraisorn
Pelatih: Kiatisuk Senamuang
tribunnews.com

Soccer-Life Bans Handed Out in Malaysia Match-Fixing Case

Five players and three team officials from a Malaysian lower league soccer club have been handed life bans after being found guilty of match-fixing, local media reported.

The eight who represented Kuala Lumpur were also fined 20,000 Malaysian Ringgit ($6,100) by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) who will hold a disciplinary hearing on Friday for seven more players from the club, the Malaysia Star reported.

The paper said coach Stanislav Lieskovsky, assistant manager Rosli Omar and kitman Shaari Jani were the officials disciplined with the Slovak manager having already returned home to Europe in July.

The five Malaysian players named were 29-year-old defender Jeremy Danker, 28-year-old right back Hafizi Roslee, 26-year-old centreback Fadhulah Yunsiar, 31-year-old midfielder Khairul Anuar and 22-year-old goalkeeper Phoo Kai Lun.

The paper did not say which games had been fixed. The three-times Malaysia Cup winners have suffered back-to-back relegations from the top-flight and will compete in the third tier next year.

Hafizi had been charged by the FAM disciplinary committee in September and suspended for six months after 'failing to play to a level that is considered satisfactory' in a 5-0 league loss to Sime Darby in May.

He was the first player to be charged under the unsporting behaviour law by the FAM after he was adjudged to have acted unprofessionally by 'giving' the ball to an opponent.

Banners with the words 'Bookie detected' were seen at the match which was investigated by local police..

Malaysia, like much of Southeast Asia, has fought a long battle with match-fixing in sport with poorly paid players and officials routinely punished for wrongdoing.

 The FAM said last month they were considering employing Sportradar, the Swiss-based supplier of sports and betting-related data, to help detect rigging in top-flight matches.

Sportsradar were employed by the Asian Football Confederation to monitor their matches last month after proving instrumental in unearthing a match-fixing syndicate in Australia, which led to four players and one official being banned by world governing body FIFA.

Kuala Lumpur FA (KLFA) president Astaman Abdul Aziz said he hoped all stakeholders in Malaysian football would continue to strive to clean up the local game.

"We will provide any form of assistance to the relevant authorities to fight corruption. We want the game to be clear of this disease," said Astaman.

sports.yahoo.com

Thailand: Let's Destroy the Indonesian Squad!

THAILAND UPDATED. Thailand Under-23 coach Kiatisuk Senamuang is confident that his team will end their SEA Games title drought when they take on Indonesia in the final at the Zeyar Thiri Stadium on Saturday night.

Thailand were eliminated in the group stages in the last two tournaments in 2009 and 2011 but they will be the overwhelming favourites to regain the men’s football title after defeating Singapore 1-0 in the semi-finals on Thursday.

Kiatisuk’s men have been the hot favourites since starting their Group B campaign with aplomb – beating Timor-Leste 3-1. They then whipped Indonesia 4-1 before drawing 1-1 with Myanmar and 0-0 with Cambodia.

The Thai legend said that his team had done well to advance to the final and that they are on the right track to reclaim the gold medal.

‘’Our aim is to win the gold medal in the SEA Games,’’ said the 40-year-old coach fondly called Zico.

‘’However, we still have to work hard to win it ... the fight is not over yet and our win against Indonesia in the first round is irrelevant.’’

Indonesia, meanwhile will try to end their SEA Games jinx after going more than two decades without winning the gold in the biennial tournament.

Indonesia coach Rahmad Darmawan has urged his players to continue showing the same kind of consistency that has seen them come this far.

“It will be a hard-fought match but I believe we have it in us to beat Thailand ... if we play according to our game plan,” said Rahmad.

Thailand One Win Away From Football Gold

THAILAND UPDATED. Kiatisak's men to meet Indonesia in decider. Thailand will be heavy favourites to regain the men's football title after defeating Singapore 1-0 in the semi-finals at the SEA Games on Thursday night.

Praweenwat Boonyong's 23rd minute penalty kick sent Thailand to their first final since 2007.

In tomorrow's final, Kiatisak Senamuang's men will meet Indonesia who stunned Malaysia 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in yesterday's other semi-final.

Thailand hammered the Indonesians 4-1 in the first round of the Myanmar Games.

Thailand were eliminated in the last two tournaments in 2009 and 2011 and Kiatisak is confident that his men will end the title drought.

''Our aim is to win the gold medal,'' said Kiatisak.

''But we have to work hard to win the title. Our win against Indonesia in the first round is irrelevant.''

At Zeyar Thiri Stadium in the country's new capital, Singapore were the better side in the opening minutes but once Thailand found their rhythm they dominated for long periods.

The Thais broke the deadlock after 23 minutes when Thai-Swiss midfielder Charyl Chappuis won a penalty after he was tripped in the area.

Bangkok Glass FC defender Praweenwat made no mistake from the spot.

The Young Lions then piled the pressure on Thailand but failed to break their defence marshalled by captain Theerathon Bunmathan.

Thailand started the second half strongly forcing Singapore goalkeeper Muhammad Mahbud to make a couple of saves.

But the game then became uneventful and the Thais chose to defend their lead.

The match became lively again in the final 10 minutes as Singapore threw everything at Thailand but could not beat goalkeeper Kawin Thamsatchanan.

In yesterday's first semi-final, Indonesia beat Malaysia 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 stalemate, avenging their defeat to their arch-rivals in the 2011 final in Jakarta.

The game finished 1-1 in normal time with a late goal from forward Thamil Arasu cancelling out a spectacular strike from Bayu Gatra after 30 minutes of a game which the Indonesians dominated.

Extra-time was a dour affair with both teams flagging on the large pitch.

The win was sweet revenge for the Indonesians, who lost on penalties to their neighbours in the final of the 2011 Games.

The Malaysians were bidding for their third straight SEA Games gold in the showpiece event of the hotly contested competition.

Indonesia, who broke the hearts of local fans with a narrow 1-0 win over Myanmar to progress from the group stage at their expense, will play Thailand in the final of the under-23 tournament.

Against Thailand tomorrow, Indonesia will try to end their SEA Games hoodoo after going more than two decades without winning gold in the biennial tournament.
bangkokpost.com

Kiatisuk: It Will Not Be An Easy Match for Indonesia.

THAILAND UPDATED. Kiatisuk anticipates tough match in final despite victory in group stage.

Thailand will be bidding to end a barren run in men's football when they meet Indonesia in the final on Saturday.

Thailand completely dominated the SEA Games' men's football when they won the title eight times in a row from 1993-2007. But they were embarrassingly eliminated in the first round in the last two tournaments. 

Also watch video recording Indonesia vs Malaysia and Thailand vs Singapore.



Coach Kiatisuk Senamuang's men are heavy favourites against the Indonesians at Zayar Thriti Stadium in Myanmar's new capital as the Thais thrashed them 4-1 in the group stage earlier in the 2013 Games.

Kiatisuk should know how to win the title as he won several gold medals during his playing days. He was on target when Thailand beat Myanmar in the 1993 final to begin their eight-title run.

However, he warned his players not to underestimate Indonesia in today's showdown.

"It will not be an easy match," he said yesterday.

"Although we beat them 4-1 in the first round, today's game will be different. I hope my players will be eager to beat them again. We must do our best and not make mistakes. I believe we can win the gold medal."

Injured Pakorn Prempak is definitely out while 'Messi Jay' Chanathip Songkrasin and Thai-Swiss Charyl Chappuis need late fitness tests.

Kiatisuk, affectionately called by his nickname 'Zico', welcomes back Pokklaw Anan who was sidelined due to injury in Thailand's 1-0 win against Singapore in the semi-finals on Thursday.

Kiatisuk's men are captained by defender Theerathon Bunmathan, a starter for the full national team. They also have other full national team players, including goalkeeper Kawin Thamasatchanan.

As for Indonesia, they have improved considerably after the defeat against Thailand.

They eliminated hosts Myanmar with a 1-0 win in their final group game and stunned defending champions Malaysia on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the semi-finals.

The Indonesians are led by Alfin Tuasalamony, Andri Ibo and Diego Robbie Michiels who could break the Thais' hearts.

PROBABLE THAILAND LINE-UP
Goalkeeper: Kawin ThamasatchananDefenders: Arthit Daosawang, Theerathon Bunmathan, Sakolwach Sakonlah, Praweenawat Boonyong
Midfielders: Charyl Chappuis, Pokklaw Anan, Thitiphan Puangjan
Strikers: Kroekrit Taweekarn, Sarawut Masuk. Adisak Kraisorn
bangkokpost.com

Skuad Indonesia Dalam Momentum Kebangkitan

INDONESIA UPDATED. Pasca mengkandaskan Malaysia di semifinal Sea Games 2013 Myanmar, Timnas Indonesia U23 akan kembali berhadapan dengan Thailand di partai final. Kedua tim sempat bertemu di babak penyisihan, dimana ketika itu Garuda Muda kalah 1-4 dari Gajah Putih.

Jika Indonesia lolos ke final setelah membungkam Malaysia, sementara itu Thailand lolos ke final setelah dipertandingan semifinal mengalahkan Timnas Singapura dengan skor tipis 1-0.

Menghadapi Thailand bukan perkara mudah bagi pelatih Indonesia, Rahmad Darmawan (RD). Kendati demikian pelatih ia mengaku optimistis anak asuhnya mampu bermain maksimal.

"Thailand merupakan tim kuat dan telah menganut sepak bola modern, kita juga sudah bertemu sebelumnya. Sekarang tinggal bagaimana kita untuk meraih yang terbaik," ungkap RD seusai pertandingan menghadapi Malaysia.

Sementara itu pelatih Timnas Thailand, Kiatisuk Senamuang mewaspadai kebangkitan Batu Gatra Cs. Indonesia menurut Kiatisuk, merupakan tim yang terus menanjak setelah mengalahkan tuan rumah Myanmar dan Malaysia.

Namun di luar itu semua, final sepak bola SEA Games XXVII antara Indonesia vs Thailand (Sabtu, 21/12/13) menyimpan cerita menarik dari kedua tim. Pasalnya laga itu akan menjadi pertarungan antara mantan polisi dan marinir.

Seperti yang diketahui jika RD sebagai pelatih, merupakan anggota Marinir aktif TNI Angkatan Laut. Dirinya sukses menjadi salah satu pelatih papan atas Indonesia, setelah menangani klub-klub besar nasional.

Jika RD adalah anggota marinir, sementara pelatih Kiatisuk Senamuang merupakan mantan anggota kepolisian Thailand, Royal Thai Police. Kiatisuk berkarier di sepak bola antara tahun 1989 hingga 2007.

Sejak 2013, Kiatisuk menjadi pejabat pelatih Tim Nasional Thailand menggantikan Winfried Schaefer. Dalam sebuah pertandingan persahabatan, dia berhasil membawa timnas Thailand menggilas Cina 5-1 pada Juni 2013.

Disisi lain, Timnas Indonesia U-23 siap memenuhi target yang ditetapkan yaitu merebut medali emas sepak bola pesta olahraga terbesar di Asia Tenggara, SEA Games 2013 Myanmar.

Peluang untuk meraih emas ini cukup terbuka karena hanya menyisakan satu pertandingan melawan Thailand pada final SEA Games 2013 di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Naypyitaw, Sabtu (21/12).

"Mereka (pemain) punya keinginan kuat untuk memenangi pertandingan. Pertandingan nanti bukan hanya masalah teknik dan strategi, tapi juga mental," kata pelatih Timnas Indonesia U-23, Rahmad Darmawan, setelah  memimpin latihan di lapangan Wunna Theikdi, Jumat (20/12).

Demi meraih target yang telah ditetapkan, pelatih Rahmad Darmawan telah menyiapkan formasi terbaik. Bahkan, pelatih yang akrab dipanggil RD ini juga telah mengetahui kekuatan dan kelemahan calon lawan.

Secara statistik, Timnas Indonesia kurang beruntung jika berhadapan dengan Thailand. Dari 17 kali pertemuan sejak 1977, Thailand menang sebanyak 12 kali dan Indonesia hanya satu kali menang.

Salah satu kekalahan yang didapat Timnas Garuda adalah saat menjalani pertandingan penyisihan Grup B SEA Games 2013 Myanmar. Saat itu Alfin Tuasalamony dan kawan-kawan harus mengakui keunggulan Tim Gajah Putih itu dengan skor 1-4.

"Thailand merupakan tim kuat dan telah menganut sepak bola modern. Kita juga sudah bertemu sebelumnya. Sekarang tinggal bagaimana kita untuk meraih yang terbaik," kata Rahmad Darmawan.

Saat menghadapi anak asuh Kiatisuk Senamuang di partai final, kemungkinan besar Rahmad Darmawan akan memperkuat lini tengah Tim Garuda Muda itu dengan skema 4-5-1 atau hanya menyiapkan satu penyerang.

Hal ini dilakukan untuk menghalau serangan dari pemain Thailand yang terkenal dengan memiliki kecepatan dan keterampilan individu yang mampuni. Selain itu lawan selama ini sudah haus akan emas SEA Games.

Sebelumnya pelatih Timnas Thailand, Kiatisuk Senamuang mengatakan untuk menghadapi Indonesia pada partai puncak bukan perkara mudah meski di pertandingan penyisihan mampu dikalahkan.

"Indonesia tim yang kuat, terbukti mampu ke final. Sebelumnya juga mengalahkan tuan rumah Myanmar dan Malaysia," katanya.

Thailand melangkah ke final SEA Games 2013 setelah di semifinal mengalahkan Singapura di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Kamis (19/12) dengan skor tipis 1-0.
 

RD: Final Saja Nggak Cukup! (Video)

INDONESIA UPDATED. Medali emas sudah ada di depan mata. Pantang bagi tim nasional sepak bola Indonesia tidak membawa pulang juara ke Tanah Air. Garuda Muda pun bertekad terbang tinggi pada partai final SEA Games 2013 melawan Thailand di Stadion Zeyar Thiri, Sabtu (21/12) malam.
 
Timnas U-23 melenggang ke final dengan mendepak Malaysia melalui babak adu penalti. Namun, Andik Vermansah dan kawan-kawan tak punya waktu lama untuk bersenang-senang. Mereka harus segera melanjutkan perjuangan untuk mengakhiri 22 tahun puasa emas Indonesia dalam cabang sepak bola SEA Games.

Simak video cuplikan pertandingan Indonesia vs Malaysia dan Thailand vs Singapore:




Pelatih Timnas U-23 Rahmad Darmawan menyadari masyarakat Indonesia tak hanya berharap tim asuhnya melangkah ke final, tapi juga dituntut menjadi juara. "Final saja tidak cukup,” kata Rahmad di Naypyitaw, Jumat (20/12).

Juru taktik yang akrab disapa RD itu sama sekali tak gentar meskipun akan melawan tim yang pernah mengalahkan Indonesia di fase grup dengan skor telak 1-4. Ia cukup optimistis bisa membalaskan kekalahan itu.

RD sudah mempelajari gaya permainan tim berjuluk Gajah Putih itu. Thailand diakuinya memiliki transisi permainan yang cepat dari bertahan ke menyerang. Berkaca dari pertemuan pertama melawan Thailand, Kamis (12/12), RD kini meminta anak asuhnya tak lagi bermain terbuka.
republika.com

Thailand Football Team Closer to Gold Dream

THAILAND UPDATED. Thailand under-23 football team beat Singapore 1-0 at Zayar Thiri Stadium, Nay Pyi Taw on Thursday to reach the final of men football match at 27th SEA Games.

Thailand were given a penalty kick after 23 minutes which Boon Yong did not make any mistake to take for the only winning goal.

Singapore sought an equalizer, playing roughly and putting Thailand in defensive position.

After 82 minutes Suhaimi had chance to shoot close but Thailand' s keeper Thamsatchanan neatly caught it.

In the final Thailand will play Indonesia whom they beat 4-1 in the group stage while the semi-final losers Singapore and the defending champion Malaysia will jostle for the third place on Saturday.

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Harimau Muda Syok, Ruang Ganti Sepi

MALAYSIA UPDATE. Malaysia kalah adu penalti 4-3 dari Indonesia setelah bermain 1-1 selama 120 menit di semifinal SEA Games 2013.

Pelatih Malaysia, Ong Kim Swee menyebut ruang ganti timnya seperti kuburan usai kekalahan tersebut. Seluruh pemain larut dalam kesedihan karena ditaklukkan rival abadinya dengan cara mengenaskan, lewat adu penalti.

Meski kalah, Ong Kim Swee enggan menyalahkan pemain yang gagal memasukkan bola saat adu penalti.

Malaysia gagal di dua penendang pertama, yakni sang pencetak gol Thamil Arasu dan Shahril Saad, akibat aksi gemilang Kurnia Meiga.

"Thamil dan Saad tidak harus bertanggung jawab akan hal ini (kalah adu penalti). Pemain sudah lakukan yang terbaik. Sekarang situasinya seperti pemakaman. Lima penendang adalah yang sudah terbaik dari 11 pemain. Tak ada yang perlu dipersalahkan," jelasnya usai laga kepada wartawan.
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Performa K Meiga Menembus Final

INDONESIA UPDATED. Penampilan cemerlang, penjaga gawang Kurnia Meiga (K Meiga), dalam drama adu penalti mengantarkan Timnas Indonesia U-23 melaju ke pertandingan final cabang olahraga sepak bola SEA Games XXVII.

Timnas Indonesia U-23 mengalahkan Malaysia U-23 1-1 (4-3) dalam pertandingan semifinal di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Naypyitaw, Kamis (19/12/2013).

Skuat Garuda Muda mencetak gol pembuka melalui Bayu Gatra pada menit ke-30. Harimau Muda Malaya kemudian menyamakan kedudukan, setelah Thamil Arasu Ambumamee mencetak gol pada menit ke-85. Pertandingan dilanjutkan ke babak perpanjang waktu. Sayang, belum ada gol tercipta dalam pertandingan 2X15 menit.

Pertandingan dilanjutkan ke tendangan adu penalti. Penjaga gawang Indonesia U-23, Kurnia Meiga tampil gemilang. Dia mengagalkan dua tendangan penalti pemain Malaysia, yaitu Thamil Arasu Ambumamee dan Shahrul Mohd Saad.

Sementara, tiga penendang Malaysia lainnya, yaitu Muhamad Nazmi Faiz bin Mansor, Mohamad Fadhli Mohd Shas, dan Mohd Rozaimi bin Abdul Rahman mampu mengeksekusi bola dengan baik.

Sedangkan Indonesia, 2 eksekutor pertama, yaitu Alfin Ismail Tuasalamony dan Diego Michiels berhasil mencetak gol ke gawang Mohd Izham Tarmizi Roslan. Indonesia memang sempat gagal saat  tendangan Manahati Lestusen bola masih  melambung di atas gawang.

Namun, Yandi Sofyan selaku penendang keempat menyelesaikan tugas dengan baik. Penendang terakhir, Ferinando Pahabol mampu dengan tenang menceploskan bola ke gawang Malaysia. Indonesia pun melaju ke partai final.

Timnas Indonesia U-23 menunggu pemenang di pertandingan semifinal lainnya antara Thailand menghadapi Singapura di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Naypyitaw, Kamis (19/12/2013). Pertandingan final dilangsungkan di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Naypyitaw, Sabtu (21/12/2013).

Susunan Pemain:
Indonesia: Kurnia Meiga, Manahati Lestusen, Syaifuddin, Diego Michiels, Alfin Tuasalamony, Egi Melgiansyah (Nelson Alom 46), Rizky Pellu (Andik Vermansah 77/Feri Pahabol 102), Ramdani Lestaluhu, Bayu Gatra, Fandi Eko Utomo, Yandi Sofyan
Pelatih: Rahmad Darmawan

Malaysia: Izham Tarmizi, Zubir Azmi, Fadhli Shas, Shahrul Saad, Azrif Nasrulhaq, Nasir Basharuddin (Nazmi Faiz bin Mansor 46), Nazirul Naim Che Hashim (Rozaimi bin Abdul Rahman 46), D Saarvindran, Irfan Fazail, Hazwan Bakri, Thamil Arasu Ambumamee
Pelatih: Datuk Ong Kim Swee

RD: Timnas Indonesia Beruntung

INDONESIA UPDATED. Coach Timnas U-23 Indonesia Rahmad Darmawan (RD) menilai anak asuhnya lebih beruntung dibandingkan Malaysia sehingga meraih kemenangan di semifinal SEA Games 2013 di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Naypyitaw, Myanmar, Kamis.

"Pertandingan tadi bukan hanya masalah teknik dan strategi. Tapi masalah mental. Pemain kita lebih kuat dan beruntung," kata Rahmad Darmawan usai pertandingan.

Pertandingan antara Garuda Muda melawan Harimau Malaya bisa dikatakan sebagai partai yang sarat dengan gengsi. Selama ini Malaysia dinilai sebagai batu sandungan bagi Indonesia untuk meraih hasil maksimal.

Pada semifinal SEA Games 2013 pelan tapi pasti Alfin Tuasalamony dan kawan-kawan mulai menunjukkan performa terbaik sehingga tinggal selangkah lagi untuk meraih emas kejuaraan olahraga terbesar di Asia Tenggara ini.

"Saya katakan ke pemain jika kita harus maksimal hingga 90 menit bahkan 120 menit. Mereka ternyata bisa. Mental adalah salah satu kuncinya," katanya menambahkan.

Pria yang akrab dipanggil RD mengaku sangat bersyukur dengan raihan timnas saat ini. Namun, pihaknya meminta kepada semua pemain untuk segera mempersiapkan diri untuk menghadapi laga final di Zeyar Thiri Stadium, Sabtu (21/12).

Ditanya kekuatan Harimau Malaya, mantan pelatih Arema Indonesia itu mengaku jika anak asuh Ong Kim Swee itu adalah tim yang kuat. Sesuai dengan prediksi sebelumnya, Malaysia meningkatkan tempo serangan menjelang akhir pertandingan.

"Malaysia terus menekan dan akhirnya mampu menyamakan kedudukan. Kami terus meminta kepada pemain untuk tetap tenang. Dan inilah hasilnya (final)," kata pria kelahiran Metro Lampung itu.

Demi memenuhi target yang dibebankan yaitu merebut emas, RD mengaku akan segera menyiapkan tim terbaik. Namun, sebelumnya akan memberikan kesempatan kepada semua pemain untuk recovery demi mengembalikan kebugaran.

Sementara itu pelatih Timnas Malaysia Ong Kim Swee menilai Timnas Indonesia adalah tim yang kuat. Apalagi dipertandingan penentuan mampu mengalahkan tuan rumah Myanmar yang sebelumnya bermain perkasa.

"Indonesia bisa mengalahkan Myanmar. Yang kami telah berusaha memberikan yang terbaik," katanya usai pertandingan.

Dengan mampu mengalahkan Malaysia, Timnas Indonesia mampu memutuskan mimpi buruk SEA Games 2011 lalu. Saat itu Tim Garuda Muda harus menyerah juga dengan adu penalti.
antara.com
 
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Rangkaian Strategi RD Antar Timnas di SEA Games 2013

INDONESIA UPDATED. Indonesia U-23 telah memastikan diri lolos ke babak semi-final SEA Games 2013. Bisa dibilang, lolosnya skuat yang dilatih Rahmad Darmawan itu juga dinaungi faktor keberuntungan.

Bagaimana tidak, setelah sempat merasa pesimistis dengan peluang untuk lolos lantaran kalah dalam selisih gol dari Myanmar, pada akhirnya semangat para penggawa Garuda Muda kembali membubung setelah mengetahui bahwa penentuan untuk lolos adalah dengan sistem head-to-head.

Seperti diketahui, sebelum laga melawan Myanmar, Timnas U-23 baru mengoleksi poin empat dengan selisih gol minus dua. Sebaliknya, tim tuan rumah yang berada di peringkat kedua surplus lima gol dengan poin tujuh.

Jika penentuannya menggunakan sistem selisih gol lebih dulu, maka Rizki Ramdani Lestaluhu dan kawan-kawan harus menang atas Myanmar dengan margin minimal empat gol. Jelas, itu merupakan tugas yang berat, meski kemungkinan terjadi tetap ada, mengingat performa apik yang ditampilkan Kyaw Ko Ko dan kawan-kawan dalam tiga pertandingan sebelumnya.

Namun, jika penentuannya menggunakan sistem head to head, yang dilihat adalah hasil dari pertandingan saat kedua tim bentrok. Praktis, dengan sistem ini Timnas U-23 hanya butuh menang atas Myanmar - berapapun skornya. Sedangkan Myanmar hanya butuh hasil imbang.

Pada kenyataannya, Garuda Muda mampu menang tipis 1-0 atas Myanmar lewat gol dari titik penalti yang dieksekusi dengan sempurna oleh Alfin Ismail Tuasalamony pada menit ke-36. Apakah gol penalti itu masuk dalam hitungan keberuntungan?

Oke, kalau memang ada yang menganggap itu keberuntungan. Sah-sah saja. Tapi perlu diingat pula, gol tersebut tercipta hasil permainan di lapangan. Artinya, strategi yang diterapkan RD plus implementasi para pemain di lapangan yang baik dalam menerjemahkan instruksi pelatih, membuat situasi itu bisa terjadi.

Pada pertandingan itu, RD melakukan sebuah perubahan taktik yang cukup radikal dari tiga laga sebelumnya. Ya, dari tiga laga melawan Kamboja, Thailand, dan Timor Leste, pelatih berusia 47 tahun itu menerapkan pola 4-2-3-1. Tapi ketika menghadapi Myanmar di laga terakhir, RD menerapkan skema 4-4-2. Di bawah mistar gawang ada Andritany Ardhiyasa, yang tampil cukup tenang pada laga itu. Untuk lini belakang, empat yang diandalkan adalah Alfin, Manahati Lestusen, Mokhammad Syaifuddin, dan Diego Robbie Michiels.

Selanjutnya, Rizky Pellu dan Dedi Kusnandar diduetkan sebagai gelandang jangkar. Sementara Rizki Ramdani Lestaluhu dan Bayu Gatra diinstruksikan untuk bermain menusuk lewat sayap. RD pun memainkan secara bersamaan dua strikernya di laga itu; Yandi Sofyan Munawar dan Fandi Eko Utomo. Tentu saja, itu supaya bisa memberikan tekanan lebih terhadap lini pertahanan skuat yang dilatih Park Sung-hwa.

Dalam aplikasinya, transisi skema pun terjadi ketika menyerang menjadi 3-5-2. Dedi Kusnandar sedikit ditarik ke belakang, serta dua full back Alfin dan Diego naik membantu penyerangan. Daya jelajah yang cukup tinggi dari Rizky Pellu mampu menjadi penetralisir di lini tengah ketika menyerang maupun saat diserang. Di samping itu, para pemain juga bermain cukup disiplin dan tenang. Strategi ini pun bisa dibilang sukses untuk membuat para pemain Myanmar tertekan.

Selain itu, pergantian pemain cukup tepat dilakukan RD dalam laga tersebut. Andik Vermansah dimasukkan pada menit ke-63 untuk menggantikan posisi Ramdani. Kemudian, pada menit ke-83 RD menggantikan Yandi dengan Egi Melgiansyah supaya tim lebih kuat dalam bertahan.

Sayang, meski serangan yang dilakukan para pemain Indonesia cukup bervariasi baik dari sisi sayap maupun tengah, namun penyelesaian akhir masih menjadi kendala. Tim juga masih sedikit lengah ketika terjadi eksekusi bola-bola mati yang  dilakukan oleh para pemain Myanmar. Ketika terjadi tendangan bebas terlihat beberapa kali para pemain Myanmar mampu lepas dari pengawasan pemain. Beruntung, mereka gagal memanfaatkan peluang tersebut.

Bertemu Malaysia
Berbagai kelemahan tersebut harus segera dibenahi oleh para penggawa Garuda Muda. Pasalnya, pada laga semi-final 19 Desember nanti mereka akan bertemu Malaysia. Malaysia lolos ke semi-final dengan status juara grup A, setelah menang tipis 2-1 atas Vietnam, Selasa (17/12) kemarin.

Kemenangan Malaysia atas Vietnam juga patut dicermati. Hasil itu juga merupakan buah kecerdikan dari pelatih Ong Kim Swee yang menerapkan strategi serangan balik akibat kondisi beberapa pemainnya tidak fit 100 persen.

Para pemain tim Harimau Muda pun bermain sangat efektif. Mereka mampu mencetak dua gol lewat skema serangan balik yang cermat. Sementara Vietnam yang tampil menyerang sepanjang pertandingan, dibuat frustasi dan baru bisa mencetak gol pada menit ke-90+4 melalui kaki Hoang Thien Le.

Dengan kata lain, para pemain Malaysia juga mampu tampil disiplin dan secara organisasi permainan juga baik. Selain itu, Timnas U-23 juga harus menyiapkan mental untuk mengantisipasi terjadinya penentuan melalui adu penalti. Mengingat pada final SEA Games 2011 Andik Vermansah dan kawan-kawan takluk lewat adu penalti dari Malaysia dengan skor 5-4.
 
Dari segi recovery, Timnas U-23 sedikit diuntungkan lantaran memiliki waktu istirahat dua hari jelang semi-final. Sedangkan Malaysia hanya satu hari. Namun, Malaysia diuntungkan dari segi pengenalan kondisi lapangan lantaran sudah menjalani empat laga grup A di Zayarthiri Stadium, Nay Pyi Taw, yang menjadi lokasi laga empat besar.

Menarik menunggu laga kedua tim yang bakal sarat gengsi dan emosi. Timnas U-23 diperkirakan tetap akan mencoba mengambil inisiatif menekan lebih dulu. Sementara Malaysia, yang masih dilanda kelelahan bakal memainkan strategi seperti ketika menaklukkan Vietnam. Yang akan menjadi kunci pada laga nanti adalah ketenangan dan kedisiplinan para pemain dari kedua tim.
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Indonesian U-23 Likely to Pass SEA Games Semi Final Round

INDONESIA UPDATED. The Indonesia Team U-23 still has the odds to likely pass to the semifinal round of SEA Games 2013. The young Garuda needs only to win in a match against Myanmar today, without having to worry about Goal Difference (GD) aggregate system.

ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) official website wrote on Sunday that SEA Games regulation employs head-to-head result in reference to Asian Football Confederation (AFC), rather than the GD aggregate system. 

Therefore, shall there be two teams owning same points, any team winning the match against the other will have the privilege to pass.

The recent confirmation gives a slight of benefit to the young Garuda, as Indonesia owns minus two GD, while Myanmar sits comfortably with five GD. Nevertheless, Indonesia will still have to win the match against host nation, yet without worrying to score a bunch of goals.
tempo.co