Thailand Stun India 2-0 in International Friendly: Blue Tigers Fall Short in Key Asian Cup Prep

Image Source: Outlook India

India’s hopes of a morale-boosting result ahead of their crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier suffered a blow as they went down 0-2 to Thailand in an international friendly at Thammasat Stadium, Pathum Thani, on Wednesday evening.

Key Highlights

Kick-off & Streaming: The match started at 6:00 PM IST and was available for live streaming in India exclusively on the FanCode app and website. There was no TV telecast for Indian viewers.

Match Summary: Thailand, ranked 99th in FIFA rankings, outclassed India (ranked 127th) with goals from Ben Davis (8th minute) and Poramet Arjvilai (59th minute), capitalizing on defensive lapses and clinical finishing.

Stats Breakdown:India had more possession (50.8%) and more shots (19) than Thailand (49.2%, 7 shots), but both teams managed just three shots on target each. Thailand converted two of their chances, while India failed to score.

Sunil Chhetri had India’s best chance in the 24th minute, but his header was denied by Thai goalkeeper Saranon Anui.

Team News & Context:

Only seven players from India’s 2019 Asian Cup squad featured in this friendly, while Thailand fielded just two from their previous roster, signaling a new era for both teams.

The match served as a crucial warm-up for India ahead of their must-win Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong on June 10. Thailand, meanwhile, are set to play Turkmenistan next.

Historical Edge: Despite India’s back-to-back wins over Thailand in 2019, the hosts reversed fortunes this time, exposing India’s lack of cutting edge and cohesion in attack.

Live Streaming Details: For future reference, Indian fans can catch such international friendlies live on the FanCode app, as TV broadcast remains unavailable.

“India had more possession and shots but lacked the clinical edge, while Thailand made the most of their chances to seal a deserved win.”

What’s Next?

India must regroup quickly as they prepare for their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier against Hong Kong on June 10—a must-win encounter to keep their Asian Cup hopes alive.

Source:Firstpost, Business Standard, Times Now, MyKhel, NDTV Sports, Moneycontrol, Olympics.com