Thailand’s hopes of lifting the 51st King’s Cup ended in heartbreak as they narrowly lost 0-1 to Iraq in the final at the Kanchanaburi Provincial Stadium last night.
Head coach Masatada Ishii fielded the same attacking trio that scored in the semifinal against Fiji – Benjamin Davis, Poramet Arjvilai, and Teerasak Poeiphimai – supported by Supachok Sarachat and striker Supachai Jaided up front.
Thailand started brightly and nearly took the lead in the 26th minute when Supachok played Supachai through on goal, but the striker’s left-footed shot found only the side netting.
In the 41st minute, Promes had another opportunity from a free kick but fired just over the bar.
Despite both sides trading possession, the first half ended scoreless.
Thailand introduced Chanathip Songkrasin early in the second half to spark creativity. In the 67th minute, Supachok’s powerful shot forced a save from Iraq’s goalkeeper, and substitute Jaroensak Wongkorn pounced on the rebound – only for VAR to rule it offside.
Just minutes later, Iraq made Thailand pay. Ibrahim Bayesh delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, which Mohanad Ali headed home in the 75th minute to give Iraq the lead.
Iraq’s task was made harder a minute later when Frans Putros received a second yellow card for a foul on Supachok, reducing them to 10 men. Deep in stoppage time, they were further reduced to nine players after goalscorer Mohanad Ali was sent off for a reckless challenge on Chanathip.
Thailand pressed for an equaliser, with Supachai volleying narrowly over in the 94th minute, but could not find the back of the net.
The match ended 0-1, handing Iraq their second King’s Cup title, following their 2023 triumph. while Thailand had to settle for runners-up.
Despite the defeat, Thailand’s spirited performance against a physically and tactically strong Iraqi side will be a source of encouragement as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.
Credit Photo : FA Thailand
