Thai club deducts salary from player involved in brawl with Indonesian club.

In addition to the penalty from the Football Association of Thailand (FAT), Thirapak Prueangna received further disciplinary action from his club, Buriram United, following the brawl with Indonesia in the SEA Games 32 final.

Thirapak Prueangna with the U22 Thailand team at the 32nd SEA Games. Photo: FAT — Thirapak Prueangna with the U22 Thailand team at the 32nd SEA Games. Photo: *FAT*

Buriram United fined Thirapak Prueangna 25% of his salary for six months. During the same period, the midfielder, born in 2001, was also banned from participating in all of the club's matches.

Buriram United considers this a lesson in caring for players who are more emotionally mature. "Players must understand the image and reputation involved in representing Thai football," the club's statement read. "If they cannot control themselves, the club will not support them in joining the national team."

Following the brawl, the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) established a disciplinary committee to investigate the incident. Yesterday, May 23rd, the FAT issued a six-month ban to Thirapak from all levels of the Thai national team. Goalkeeper Soponwit Rakyart received a similar ban, but Phrae United FC did not face any separate punishment. The FAT stated they were lenient with the two players because they are young and had already apologized immediately after the incident.

In addition to the two players, goalkeeping coach Prasadchok Chokmoh, assistant coach Phatrawut Wongsripuek, and team leader Mayid Madada have been banned from working with Thai national teams for one year.

A brawl between the Thai and Indonesian teams.

The SEA Games 32 final on May 16th was dramatic, with Thailand equalizing 2-2 in the ninth minute of added time in the second half. Immediately afterwards, some members of their team ran to the Indonesian technical area to celebrate, leading to the first brawl.

In extra time, Irfan Jauhari scored in the 91st minute to give Indonesia a 3-2 lead. At this point, Indonesian members ran to the Thai technical area to celebrate. This brawl escalated further, with even the head of the Indonesian delegation, Kombes Surmadji, being assaulted. Ultimately, Indonesia won 5-2 to claim the gold medal in men's football after 32 years.

The incident has tarnished the image of Southeast Asian football. Following the FAT's punishment, some have suggested that the Indonesian Football Federation should also impose sanctions on its team members. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will likely issue additional penalties in the near future.

Hieu Luong

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