A football final between Thailand and Indonesia descended into chaos as players and coaches engaged in a mass brawl on the pitch at the 2023 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games yesterday.

The teams were facing off at the Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on May 16, with the Indonesian team up 2-0 just before half time, reportedly leading under controversial 'unsportsmanlike' circumstances.

Violence finally erupted during the second half when Thai officials, gloating over a clutch goal that equalised the score and forced extra time, went over to the Indonesia bench, sparking a brawl.

When calm finally returned and the game resumed, Indonesia quickly took the lead back, this time triggering a second melee when their officials did the same.

Security staff rushed to break up the fight as both players and coaches threw punches at each other.

The referee doled out four red cards as the match continued. However, Indonesia bagged an easy victory when Thailand's Jonathan Khemdee and Teerasak Poeiphimai were sent off.

The win, though marred by charges of poor sportsmanship, marks the end of Indonesia's 32-year (SEA) medal drought.

Indonesia head coach Indra Syafri said: 'I regret that friends from both Thailand and our team fought. But it's over, we already hugged and forgave each other. This is football.'

Meanwhile, Thai football officials have apologised for the violence and said it would establish a committee 'to investigate those involved as soon as possible and take decisive measures.'