Buriram United, reduced to 10 players since the first half, relied on Robert Zulj’s winning goal to narrowly defeat Sukhothai FC 1-0, firmly maintaining their top spot.
On 24 Dec 2025 GMT+7, in the BYD Sea Lion Six League One match of the 2025-26 season, Sukhothai FC hosted league leaders Buriram United. Despite being down to 10 men, the visitors secured a crucial 1-0 away win.
Before the match, Sukhothai FC was confident after recently winning in the league by overturning Nakhon Ratchasima Mazda FC 2-1 at home, holding 8th place in the table. They had also just beaten Nongbua Pitchaya FC 3-0 in a cup game. This match saw Thiti Thumphon return from suspension and Chaiyaphol Adton back to the squad.
Buriram United continued their strong form, having won four consecutive league matches. Their latest was a narrow 1-0 victory over Port FC, securing their firm hold on top of the table. They also recently thrashed Customs United 5-1 in the Chang FA Cup. However, this game lacked Phasa Hemvipul, who was suspended.
The first half was balanced until the 35th minute when Buriram faced a major setback. Guilherme Bissoli received a direct red card for striking Sarungkan Promsupa in the face, leaving the visitors with only 10 players. Nevertheless, no goals were scored, and the half ended 0-0.
In the second half, despite being a man down, Buriram controlled the attack better and scored the crucial goal in the 61st minute. A long ball from Theerathon Bunmathan found Sasalak Haiprakhon, who controlled it inside the box and passed back to Robert Zulj, who calmly finished to put Buriram ahead 1-0.
Trailing, Sukhothai FC pushed forward aggressively and dominated possession late in the game. They had several chances to equalize, especially in the 90+9th minute stoppage time with a header in the box, but it was saved by Neil Etheridge and ruled offside.
After 90 minutes, Buriram United, playing with 10 men since the first half, held on to their 1-0 lead thanks to Robert Zulj’s decisive goal. This win means the “Thunder Castle” remain top of the table with 40 points at the end of the first leg.