KUALA LUMPUR: MALAYSIA failed to win their first ever AFF Under-18 Championship title following a 2-0 defeat to Thailand in the final at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon on Sunday.
The result could have been different had Akhyar Rashid scored in the sixth minute.
The Kedah winger latched onto a through ball with only Thai goalkeeper Kantaphat Manpati in front of him but the Malaysian was unlucky as his shot struck off the post.
Thailand's tempo improved after they brought in Ekanit Panya and Yuthapichai Lertlum in the 37th minute.
After the breather, Thailand stamped their mark with a goal through Ekanit in the 48th minute, before captain Kritsada Kaman extended their lead three minutes later.
In the 67th minute, Thailand were down with 10 players after referee Clifford Daypuyat of the Philippines sent off defender Wudtichai Kumkeam.
In stoppage time, Malaysia earned a penalty, but substitute Zafuan Azeman’s attempt was saved by Thai keeper Kantaphat.