Sunday’s highly anticipated 2024/25 Thai League 1 clash between Port FC and True Bangkok United at PAT Stadium ended in a goalless draw. Widely billed as a showdown between Indonesian national team stars Asnawi Mangkualam (Port) and Pratama Arhan (Bangkok United), the match offered only a brief head-to-head encounter between the two, as Arhan was introduced late in the game. However, both players still had the chance to showcase their quality to a broad audience.
Asnawi was given a starting position by Port head coach Wasapol Kaewpaluk and was deployed as part of a five-defender formation. He delivered a solid performance throughout the game. Meanwhile, Arhan began the match on the bench and was only introduced in the 81st minute, replacing Peerapat Notchaiya.
As a starter, Asnawi played aggressively and frequently won duels against Bangkok United’s players. His disciplined play helped Port withstand their opponent’s attacks. In contrast, Arhan, who played for only nine minutes, had limited opportunities to make a significant impact on the game.
Overall, the match produced few goal-scoring opportunities. Port managed to create three chances, while Bangkok United had just one throughout the game. Despite this, both teams remained competitive until the final whistle.
Interestingly, the match was attended by former Indonesian national team coach Shin Tae-yong. Ta Lao, a renowned Thai football analyst, noted his presence, writing on his social media, “The former Indonesian national team coach attended the Garuda derby between Asnawi (Port) and Arhan (Bangkok United).”
After the match, Tae-yong was seen stepping onto the field to greet both Indonesian players. Arhan and Asnawi had a brief conversation before exchanging jerseys as a gesture of sportsmanship.
Following the match, Arhan will join Patrick Kluivert’s Indonesia national team for their third-round World Cup 2026 qualifier against Australia on March 20 in Sydney. Meanwhile, Asnawi has been left out of the squad, with his usual right-back position likely to be filled by Yokohama F. Marinos star Sandy Walsh.