The evening of December 20 brought high-stakes drama in Group A of the AFF Cup 2024, as the final matches determined the two teams advancing to the semi-finals.
In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia hosted Singapore in a do-or-die showdown. The home team needed nothing less than a win to progress, while Singapore only required a draw. Malaysia dominated the match, creating numerous chances but failing to capitalize. Twice they were denied by the crossbar, adding to their frustration. The goalless stalemate sealed Singapore’s ticket to the semi-finals, following group leaders Thailand.
Meanwhile, Thailand faced Cambodia in a simultaneous fixture. With their spot in the next round already secured, Thailand still played to assert their dominance. Cambodia surprised everyone with a 32nd-minute opener, but the Thai squad quickly equalized and took control in the second half. Goals in the 78th and 83rd minutes gave Thailand a commanding lead. Although Cambodia scored a late goal in stoppage time, the match ended 3-2 in Thailand's favor.
Group A concluded with Thailand finishing at the top, boasting a perfect record of four wins. Singapore claimed the runner-up position with 7 points, while Cambodia and Malaysia were eliminated at the group stage.
The semi-finals await, and the competition promises even more excitement as the region’s top teams battle for glory.
