Thailand were hungrier: Takraw coach reveals reason for Asiad defeat

NAGOYA: Thailand's greater hunger for victory and their consistency in attack and defence proved to be the deciding factor as Malaysia failed to secure the men's regulation sepak takraw gold medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. National coach Ahmad Jais Baharun revealed that Thailand played a more composed game throughout the final, making it difficult for Malaysia to regain their rhythm and change the momentum.

Jais highlighted Thailand's ability to maintain pressure through their attacking play and disciplined defending as the key differences between the two teams. Malaysia had to settle for silver after losing 15-9, 15-8 to Thailand's Kritsanapong Nontakote, Wuttinun Kamsanor, and Tanaphon Sapyen. Despite this loss, Jais emphasized that the team's overall performance was commendable, marking a 36-year wait for the national team to win a regulation gold medal.

He also noted that the defeat provided a clear indication of the areas that need improvement for future competitions, particularly in identifying and addressing weaknesses. The loss also extinguished Malaysia's hopes of repeating their double-gold achievement from the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, where they won both the men's regulation team and individual events.