Thailand FA issues apology over SEA Games brawl, vows stern action

The Football Association of Thailand has apologised for a chaotic Southeast Asian Games final with Indonesia that descended into brawls and red cards.

"The association would like to express its disappointment and apologise for the off-field chaos that occurred during the match", the FAT said in a statement distributed to media on Wednesday.

The statement promised punishment for those involved in the brawling, which "caused great damage to the Thai national football team".

FAT said it will form a committee to investigate and that "there will be severe punishment with no protection for the personnel who caused damage in this incident."

Six red cards were handed out, five to Thailand, in a gold medal final that was won by Indonesia 5-2 after extra time.

The trouble began when Indonesia celebrated after mistaking the referee whistling for a free kick as the final whistle while leading 2-1 with seconds remaining.

Thailand equalised off the free kick and fighting then erupted in front of the Indonesian and Thai benches between players and staff.

More fighting came after Indonesia opened extra time with a goal.

Thailand finished the match with just seven players on the pitch due to injuries and red cards.