AFC U20 Asian Cup: Thailand and Syria Battle to 2-2 Stalemate
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Synopsis
In a thrilling AFC U20 Asian Cup match, Syria and Thailand drew 2-2, with both teams finishing their campaigns in Group D. Thailand's efforts were commendable despite finishing last, while Syria's performance secured them third place.
Key Takeaways
- Exciting 2-2 draw between Syria and Thailand.
- Thailand played for pride, creating multiple scoring chances.
- Syria capitalized on their numerical advantage.
- Thanawut's remarkable performance helped Thailand equalize.
- Both teams ended their campaigns in Group D.
Shenzhen (China), Feb 20 (NationPress) In an exciting conclusion to their AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 campaign, Syria and Thailand ended their final Group D encounter at the Longhua Cultural and Sports Centre Stadium with a score of 2-2. Syria finished their tournament in third place with two points, while Thailand ended up at the bottom of the group. The Korea Republic topped the group after a 1-1 draw against Japan.
Thailand, motivated to play for pride, created the first scoring chance early in the match. In the second minute, Yotsakon Burapha had a close-range effort saved by Syrian goalkeeper Maksim Sarraf after receiving a pass from Thanawut Phochai.
In response, Syria threatened in the eighth minute when Mohammad Al Mustafa outjumped two defenders, but his header went directly to custodian Anut Samran.
Anut was busy in the 21st minute, making consecutive saves first by blocking Anas Al Dahhan’s powerful shot from distance and then tipping the rebound over the bar when Mustafa followed up.
Thailand's Thanawut had a fantastic chance to score in the 38th minute but, after a sprint down the left, he sent his shot wide of the right post with only Sarraf to beat.
Just before halftime, Thailand was reduced to ten men when Anut received a red card for handling the ball outside the box. Midfielder Jirapong Pungviravong was substituted for goalkeeper Prapot Chongcharoen.
Syria capitalized on their numerical advantage shortly after the break, with Ahmad Al Kalou scoring in the 52nd minute by firing the ball into the top of the net from inside the box following a goalmouth scramble.
The 1994 champions doubled their lead in the 71st minute when Dahhan outmaneuvered two defenders to set up an unmarked Mustafa, who easily finished.
Thailand quickly responded in the 73rd minute, as Thanawut faked out a defender and curled a shot into the bottom left corner, leaving Sarraf stranded.
In the 80th minute, Sarraf could only deflect Thanawut's shot from inside the area, allowing the striker to pounce and net the equalizer.
