Did India Suffer a Disappointing 0-2 Loss to Thailand in a FIFA Friendly?

Pathum Thani (Thailand), June 4 (NationPress) - The Indian men's national football team faced a 0-2 defeat against a formidable Thailand team during a FIFA International Friendly held at the Thammasat Stadium on Wednesday. This result is a significant setback as they prepare to take on Hong Kong in the upcoming AFC Asian Qualifiers 2027.

India exhibited glimpses of determination but fell victim to precise executions from the Thai players. Goals from Benjamin Davis (8') in the first half and Poramet Arjvilai (59') in the second half secured the victory for the War Elephants, while the Indian squad lamented missed chances and defensive errors.

Ranked 99th in the FIFA World Rankings, Thailand began the match strongly, capitalizing on their early advantage. In the eighth minute, Phitiwat Sookjitthammakul found Korawich Tasa near the Indian box.

Tasa cleverly laid the ball off for Ben Davis, who made a precise first touch before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot past Indian goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. This marked Davis' fourth goal in seven matches for Thailand, exposing the Indian defense that reacted tardily.

As the match progressed, India found their rhythm, utilizing the pitch's width to challenge Thailand's defense. Liston Colaco stood out, forming a strong connection with Sunil Chhetri and forward Ashique Kuruniyan.

India's first opportunity to equalize came in the 24th minute when Colaco delivered a dangerous free-kick from the left, which Chhetri met with a precise header. However, Thailand's goalkeeper Saranon Anuin made a brilliant save diving to his left.

Thailand maintained their attacking threat with long-range shots from Korawich and Poramet just missing the target. Yet, India remained composed, and in the 33rd minute, Colaco once again created a chance, getting past defenders and setting up Kuruniyan, who unfortunately misfired.

Reentering the second half, India displayed renewed determination, with Colaco testing the Thai goalkeeper once more with a curling free-kick from outside the box. However, their inability to convert chances proved detrimental.

In the 59th minute, a misplayed pass in midfield allowed Thailand to regain possession. The ball was quickly passed to Poramet on the left flank, who, noticing Vishal Kaith slightly off his line, curled a stunning shot into the top-right corner, doubling Thailand's lead and dampening India's hopes.

Substitute Lallianzuala Chhangte attempted a spectacular solo run but couldn't penetrate the Thai defense. Meanwhile, Changsuek looked to exploit the gaps left by India and could have extended their lead if not for a crucial block by Anwar Ali in the closing moments.