The victory marked a milestone moment for Thai women’s futsal with captain Darika Peanpailun the star of the night, delivering a stunning hat-trick with goals in the 31st, 35th and 36th minutes.
Her performance not only turned the tide of the contest but also earned her the accolade of Most Valuable Player of the tournament, reports the Bangkok Post.
Thailand’s other goals came from Sangrawee Meekham, who opened the scoring in the fifth minute, and Jenjira Bubpha, who struck in the 19th. Jenjira’s consistency throughout the competition also saw her finish as the tournament’s top scorer.
Australia benefitted from two own goals - Sangrawee inadvertently turning the ball into her own net in the 17th minute, followed by Sasiprapha Suksen in the 24th.
The Aussies also found the target through Alexia Elisabeth Karrys-Stahl in the 24th minute and Nikkita Fazzari in the 40th, keeping the contest alive until the final whistle.
Their goalkeeper, Sarah Maree Easthope, was named the tournament’s best shot-stopper.
Earlier in the day, Vietnam secured third place with a commanding 4-1 win over Indonesia.
After a goalless opening half, Indonesia briefly led through Nisma Francida Rusdiana in the 21st minute. Vietnam responded emphatically, scoring four times through Le Thi Thanh Ngan (24th), Tran Thi Thuy Trang (26th), Fitry Amelya’s own goal (27th), and Nguyen Phuong Anh (38th).
The Thai champions were later rewarded with a B2million cash prize, presented by Football Association of Thailand president Nualphan Lamsam and vice-president Adisak Benjasiriwan.