A controversial moment during the AFC Champions League Elite clash between Malaysia’s Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and Thailand’s Buriram United has captured global attention. The match, already intense due to its stakes, took an unexpected turn when Buriram United’s Theerathon Bunmathan committed an act deemed highly unsportsmanlike, sparking outrage among fans and players alike.
What happened between Malaysian and Thailand’s footballers?
The incident occurred towards the end of the first half. Buriram United’s captain, Theerathon Bunmathan, was fouled by Johor Darul Ta’zim’s Arif Aiman, causing him to fall to the ground. Aiman, in a gesture of sportsmanship, extended his hand to help Bunmathan get back on his feet.
To everyone’s shock, Bunmathan, instead of accepting the gesture graciously, pinched Aiman’s genitals. The Malaysian player immediately collapsed in visible pain, rolling on the ground while clutching his crotch. The unexpected act left players and spectators stunned.
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VAR Intervention and Red Card Issued to Footballer
The referee, who did not initially witness the incident, relied on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to review what had transpired. After a thorough review, Bunmathan was shown a red card for his actions, forcing Buriram United to continue the game with ten players.
The decision was met with mixed reactions, but most agreed it was warranted given the severity of Bunmathan’s actions.
Social Media Backlash
As footage of the incident circulated online, social media erupted in criticism. Many users expressed outrage, labeling Bunmathan’s behavior as not just unsportsmanlike but also inappropriate and unacceptable.
“Isn’t that sexual harassment?” one user questioned. Another chimed in, “100%.” A third quipped, “He played with the wrong ball… bro needs to remember he is playing football.”
Others took a harsher tone, criticizing Bunmathan’s character. A comment read, “Doesn’t deserve to be a captain. These are not how a professional footballer should behave. Really bad character and mindset. It shows their true personality in real life outside of the game.”
Match Outcome and Implications for Footballer
Despite the on-field drama, the game ended in a scoreless draw, with both teams failing to secure a decisive victory. The match was part of a crucial stage in the tournament, as both sides were vying for a spot in the Round of 16.
The incident, however, overshadowed the game’s outcome, with fans and analysts focusing on the unsportsmanlike behavior and its impact on the sport’s reputation.
