Bangkok: The Thai women’s hockey team made history by defeating Malaysia 7-1 to win the SEA Games gold medal for the first time in 30 years. “Big Nat,” the team’s president, expressed confidence that the team can now compete against any team in Asia.

According to Thai News Agency, the 5-a-side hockey competition took place at the RTAF Hockey Stadium. In the final, the Thai women’s team, ranked third in Asia, faced Malaysia, ranked second in Asia. Historically, Malaysia has been dominant in their encounters, including a 7-2 victory over Thailand in the first round of this SEA Games. The final match provided Thailand with an opportunity for revenge.

Under the guidance of South Korean coach Bae Yong-hyuk, the Thai team executed effective game plans, securing a 4-1 lead in the first half. They continued their momentum in the second half by adding three more goals in quick succession, achieving a commanding 7-1 victory. This win marks Thailand’s first victory over Malaysia in 30 years, with the last triumph occurring at the 18th SEA Games in 1995 in Chiang Mai.

After the game, Dato’ Seri Chaipak Siriwat, President of the Hockey Association of Thailand, expressed his delight, stating, “Thank you to all the athletes and coaching staff for this success. You have brought happiness and smiles to all Thais, brought fame to our country, and made history by decisively defeating the second-ranked team in Asia 7-1. We can now compete against any team.”