Thai PBS Verify has discovered that a Facebook account posted a VAR image, claiming it to be from a controversial moment before Thailand’s goal in the ASEAN Cup 2024 match on December 30, 2024. However, after verification, it was found that the image was actually taken from a VAR incident during the Japan vs. Spain match in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This misleading post has caused many people to misunderstand the situation.
Sources: Facebook
Verification Process
Thai PBS Verify found that a Facebook user named "Doo volleyball v.12" posted an image of Seksan Ratree running to cross the ball near the goal line during the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 semifinals, where Thailand defeated the Philippines 3-1. Along with the image, the post included a screenshot of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and a caption stating, "Here’s the full image. Rest assured, it’s perfectly clean. 1-0."
However, after verification using Google Lens, Thai PBS Verify discovered that the VAR image used for comparison was actually from Japan’s winning goal in their 2-1 victory over Spain during the 2022 FIFA World Cup group stage.
The Right-Side Image Source
The right-side image is from the website adidas.co.th
The Controversial Match Moment
The image in the false post depicts a highly discussed moment in the match. Before Peeradol Chamrasamee scored, Seksan Ratree ran to cross the ball back into play. From the live broadcast camera angle, it appeared as though the ball had already crossed the goal line.
However, the referee checked the VAR footage, which showed a top-down view confirming that the ball had not fully crossed the line. As a result, the goal was awarded to Thailand. In this match, Thailand defeated the Philippines 3-1 in extra time, winning 4-3 on aggregate over two legs and advancing to the ASEAN Championship 2024 final against Vietnam, while the Philippines was eliminated.
Impact of This Misinformation
The false post generated significant interest, with over 17,000 likes, more than 2,600 comments, and 276 shares. Among the commenters, some recognized the image as fake, while many others were unaware that it had been misrepresented.
Confirming that the image used was not VAR from Thailand’s match.
Verification by Thai PBS Sports Reporter
We presented the image to Thanit Eubsuk, a sports reporter from Thai PBS, who confirmed that the image used in the post was actually from the 2022 FIFA World Cup match between Japan and Spain. It had no connection to the Thailand vs. Philippines match in the ASEAN Cup.
Additionally, the VAR footage used in the Thailand-Philippines match did not include such a camera angle, as this type of VAR technology is exclusive to the World Cup. The player’s legs in the image actually belong to Kaoru Mitoma, who was passing the ball to Ao Tanaka for Japan’s goal against Spain. It is not an image of Seksan Ratree
VAR Technology Differences
The VAR technology used in Thailand and ASEAN competitions is not as advanced as the system used in the FIFA World Cup. The most recent VAR footage in ASEAN matches primarily comes from a horizontal angle captured by a camera positioned in the stands. However, even from this stadium camera angle, it was still visible that the ball had not fully crossed the goal line—a portion of it remained in play. As a result, VAR did not alert the referee for further review and confirmed the goal as valid.
Possible Reasons for Spreading Misinformation
It is expected that the purpose of posting such images on the page might be to gain likes, especially during an ongoing football competition. Part of the reason, Many fans watching the match may not have verified the image.
A closer look at the color of the sock suggests that they do not match Thailand’s national team uniform. suggests that they do not match Thailand’s national team uniform. Additionally, comparing Seksan Ratree’s actual shoes to those in the image reveals that they are completely different pairs. However, casual viewers who do not closely follow football news might be misled by these images. suggests that they do not match Thailand’s national team uniform.
How to Verify Suspicious Posts?
If you come across a questionable post, you can verify its authenticity with these simple steps:
✅ Step 1: Use Image Search Tools (e.g., Google Lens)
Choose the image you would like to verify and right-click on the image and select "Search Google for image" or use Google Lens to analyze the image.
✅ Step 2: Check the results
After selecting the image, you want to verify and using Google Lens, the results will show if the image matches or appears on other websites. This will help you determine if the image has been used elsewhere or if it is potentially misleading or taken out of context.
With this simple verification process, we can determine whether the image that was shared or forwarded is genuine or if it has been falsely claimed. This helps prevent us from mistakenly believing, sharing, or liking misleading information.
