Thailand U23 kicked off their SEA Games 2025 men’s football campaign in emphatic fashion, dismantling Timor-Leste 6–1 at Rajamangala National Stadium, Bangkok.
Head coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul (Coach Wang) deployed Yoskorn Burapa as the lone striker, supported by Chin-Ngern Pootonyong, Siraphop Wandee, and Thanakrit Chotmuangpak.
Thailand immediately imposed their rhythm, nearly scoring in the 4th minute when Siraphop Wandee’s left-footed strike was denied by goalkeeper Rodrigues Pereira.
The hosts thought they had the lead in the 11th minute when Phichitchai Siankrathok headed home a free kick, but the assistant referee ruled the play offside.
Chances continued to flow — Thanakrit tested Pereira again in the 16th minute — but Timor-Leste held on and even had a scare of their own when Luis Figo broke free on the right, only to shoot wide.
Thailand finally cracked the defence in the 44th minute.
A short corner by Thanakrit Chotmuangpak was perfectly delivered for Yotsakorn Burapha, who powered in a header to give Thailand a deserved lead.
Before the break, Thailand nearly doubled the advantage twice — Ikhlas Sanhorn (subbed on in the 42nd minute) forced a save, and Phichitchai’s header was cleared off the line.
The halftime whistle blew with Thailand ahead 1–0.
Thailand came out firing — and Timor-Leste simply had no answer.
A pinpoint cross from Phon-ek Manekorn met Siraphop Wandee, who nodded home Thailand’s second.
Super-sub Iklas Sanron weaved through the defence before unleashing a fierce left-footer that Pereira pushed into his own net.
Coach Wang rotated his squad, bringing on Khakana Khamyok and Wichan In-aram in the 69th minute — and the fresh legs made instant impact.
Khak-khana sent in a brilliant cross for Yoskorn Burapa, who headed home his second of the night.
Yoskorn completed a sensational hat-trick, pressing high to win possession before finishing confidently with his left foot. A true striker’s performance.
Thanawut Photchai split the defence with a sharp through ball, allowing Khak-khana Khamyok to slot in Thailand’s sixth.
Timor-Leste found a consolation during stoppage time through Palamito Ribeiro, but the result had long been sealed.
Thailand’s SEA Games 2025 opener ended in total domination — fluid combinations, strong wing play, and a standout hat-trick from Yoskorn Burapa sent a strong message to Group A rivals.
Credit Photo : FA Thailand
