Thailand U20 women’s national team produced a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat Bangladesh 3-2 in their opening Group A match of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026 at Thammasat Stadium, Pathum Thani.
After trailing by two goals early in the second half, the young War Elephants delivered a dramatic turnaround with three goals in ten minutes to secure a vital three points on home soil.
Under head coach Nuengrutai Srathongvian, Thailand lined up with a creative midfield partnership featuring Caden Elianalam Chaowphan supporting an attacking trio of Rasita Thaobao, Patcharaporn Koochuea and striker Kulisara Limpawanich.
Thailand created several early opportunities. In the 16th minute, Rasita curled a free-kick on target, but the Bangladesh goalkeeper made the save before Kulisara fired the rebound over the crossbar.
Further chances followed through Rinyaphat Muldong and Pitchayathida Manowang, but Thailand failed to convert their dominance into goals.
Bangladesh capitalised on the missed opportunities in the 35th minute, when Mst Sagorika broke through the defence and calmly finished past goalkeeper Athima Boonprakunpai to give the visitors a 1-0 halftime lead.
The visitors stunned the home crowd early in the second half. In the 50th minute, Sagorika struck again, racing clear before slotting home her second goal of the match to double Bangladesh’s advantage to 2-0.
Thailand continued to push forward in search of a response, with Manowang and Rasita both testing the Bangladesh goalkeeper, but the visitors’ defence held firm.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the final 20 minutes. Thailand pulled a goal back in the 69th minute after Natcha Kaewanta was fouled inside the penalty area. Kulisara stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick to make it 2-1.
Just six minutes later, Thailand were awarded another penalty when Manowang was brought down inside the box. This time, Rinyaphat confidently fired the ball into the top corner to level the score at 2-2.
Thailand completed the remarkable comeback in the 79th minute. Substitute Madison Jade Castine delivered a precise through ball to Manowang, who broke into the penalty area before finishing clinically with her left foot to give Thailand a 3-2 lead.
The hosts made late substitutions, introducing Vivian Chonthicha Dieter and Alisada Yutthakas to help close out the match.
The final whistle confirmed a dramatic 3-2 victory, earning Thailand their first three points in Group A.
Thailand will next face Vietnam in their second group-stage match at Thammasat Stadium on April 4.
Credit Photo : HongZheng Lim/SNE-Photo
