Thailand midfielder Supachok Sarachat criticized again after controversial goal voted best of ASEAN Cup

Supachok Sarachat reacts during the second leg of the ASEAN Cup final between Thailand and Vietnam on Jan. 5, 2025. Photo by FAT

The incident started in the 64th minute, when Vietnam's goalkeeper Nguyen Dinh Trieu deliberately threw the ball out of play to allow medical staff to assist Nguyen Hoang Duc. When the match resumed, Thailand restarted play without returning the ball to Vietnam. The ball found Ben Davis, who passed it to Sarachat. The attacking midfielder then curled a shot into the top corner, stunning Vietnam's players and sparking outrage.

While the action was not against the rules, it broke the convention of fair play, where the ball is usually returned to the opposing team after being put out of play on purpose when a player needs medical attention.

The goal became the subject of widespread criticism from football fans across Asia and went viral online as an example of unsportsmanlike conduct.

Despite the backlash, the 2024 ASEAN Cup organizers included Sarachat’s goal in the voting for the best of the tournament. In a surprising twist, the goal has garnered 85% of the votes, far ahead of other candidates such as Nguyen Hai Long (12%), Pham Tuan Hai (2%) and Ben Davis (0.2%).

Most of the votes reportedly came from Vietnamese fans, who many believe are forcing Sarachat to accept the award as a sweet revenge for his lack of fair play.

Thai media, including Thairath newspaper, has expressed disappointment over the situation. In an article, the publication said this situation was embarrassing and described the votes as an act of mockery, leaving the Thailand striker and fans disheartened.

The award has also drawn sarcastic reactions from football fans in Southeast Asia. Social media have been flooded with comments criticizing Sarachat.

One user called it "the best disgraceful goal in the world."

Another fan commented: "Supachok's goal against Vietnam was highly disappointing and unsportsmanlike. In situations like this, fair play should always come first. Scoring when the ball was thrown out for an injured player shows a lack of respect for the spirit of the game.

"This incident tarnished what could have been a fair and competitive match. Football is not just about winning, it's about integrity and mutual respect," another commented.

Sarachat has addressed the controversy, explaining that he was unaware that Vietnam had intentionally put the ball out of play. However, his explanation has done little to ease the situation, with many questioning his lack of understanding.

Following the controversial goal, Vietnam overcame by scoring two more goals to beat Thailand 3-2 (5-3 on aggregate) to clinch their third ASEAN Cup title.

 

 

Thailand midfielder Supachok Sarachat criticized again after controversial goal voted best of ASEAN Cup

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