India suffered a 0-2 defeat against Thailand in an international friendly held at Thammasat Stadium in Pathum Thani, just outside Bangkok, on Wednesday. The match served as a preparation for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong. Despite a spirited effort, the Indian team was unable to match Thailand’s sharpness in the final third and struggled in midfield during key phases of the game.
Benjamin Davies opened the scoring for Thailand in the eighth minute. Capitalizing on a lapse in India’s defensive coordination, Davies powered the ball into the net following a slick passing sequence between Phitiwat Sookjitthammakul and Korawich Tasa. At the time, Indian midfielder Lalengmawia Ralte was down injured in the box, but Thailand continued play, and India failed to clear their lines effectively.
India faced repeated pressure in the midfield, with their defense forced into desperate blocks and clearances. Despite their struggles, India did manage some attacking moments. Sunil Chhetri’s header tested Thai goalkeeper Saranon Anuin, and Liston Colaco almost equalized before halftime, only to be denied by a last-ditch save.
In the second half, Ashique Kuruniyan played a more advanced role, helping link play with Chhetri, whose appeal for a penalty was waved off. India had eight corner kicks but couldn’t capitalize, with headers from Sandesh Jhingan and Anwar Ali going off target. Lallianzuala Chhangte attempted a curling shot, and Suhail Bhatt had a breakthrough moment but was unable to convert.
Thailand sealed the match with a stunning long-range goal from Poramet Arjvilai in the 70th minute. The opportunity came after a poor pass from Manvir Singh during an Indian attacking build-up. Defensive interventions by Ashish Rai and Anwar Ali and a sharp save by Vishal Kaith prevented further damage.
Though India registered 19 attempts compared to Thailand’s 7, both teams had only three shots on target. Skipper Sandesh Jhingan reflected on the game, saying the key takeaway is that the team must learn to convert opportunities when they arise.
With the Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong approaching, India aims to sharpen its performance in midfield and attack to avoid repeating Wednesday’s shortcomings.
