Thailand were denied victory in their June FIFA International Window opener after surrendering a two-goal first-half advantage to draw 2-2 against Kuwait at Pathum Thani Stadium on Thursday night.
In a match that showcased both the attacking promise and defensive vulnerabilities of Anthony Hudson’s side, the War Elephants looked in complete control before Kuwait mounted an impressive second-half comeback to earn a share of the spoils.
Ranked 93rd in the FIFA World Rankings, Thailand entered the friendly determined to build momentum ahead of their upcoming clash against China. Hudson deployed Teerasak Poeiphimai as the lone striker, supported by Seksan Ratree, Anan Yodsangwal and Surachart Sareepim.
Thailand dominated possession from the outset and created the first meaningful opportunity when Surachart headed the ball into the path of Seksan, whose right-footed effort was brilliantly saved by Kuwait goalkeeper Khaled Al-Rashidi.
While Kuwait threatened sporadically through long balls, it was Thailand who eventually broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute. Veteran midfielder Sarach Yooyen delivered a precise lofted pass into the area, allowing Seksan Ratree to finish clinically into the far corner for a deserved 1-0 lead.
The hosts doubled their advantage deep into first-half stoppage time. After sustained pressure, Kritsada Kaman reacted quickest to a loose ball and fired home from distance to send Thailand into the break with a commanding 2-0 cushion.
Hudson introduced fresh legs at halftime, bringing on Jude Bell, Teerapat Pruethong and Erawan Garnier, but Kuwait emerged from the dressing room with renewed energy.
The visitors halved the deficit just three minutes into the second half when Yousef Al-Shammari rose highest to head home Nasser Jassar’s cross, shifting momentum firmly in Kuwait’s favour.
Thailand survived an early scare when Kuwait had the ball in the net again, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside. The warning signs, however, continued to mount.
Kuwait struck the woodwork through Yousef Al-Sulaiman’s powerful free-kick before finally finding the equaliser in the 69th minute. Goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai could only parry a long-range effort from Mohammad Abdullah, allowing Eid Al-Rashidi to pounce on the rebound and make it 2-2.
Despite losing control of the match, Thailand still had opportunities to reclaim victory.
Substitute Teerasil Dangda nearly restored the lead shortly after the equaliser, but Al-Rashidi produced another excellent save to keep Kuwait level.
Late in the contest, Jude Bell found himself through on goal after a swift attacking move, only to be denied by the outstanding Kuwaiti goalkeeper, who emerged as one of the key figures of the evening.
Thailand continued to push forward in the closing stages, but Kuwait’s resilience ensured the score remained level until the final whistle.
While the result may feel disappointing after holding a two-goal lead, the match provided valuable insights for Hudson and his coaching staff.
Thailand displayed encouraging attacking combinations during the first half, with Seksan Ratree particularly impressive, while Kritsada Kaman’s energetic midfield display helped establish early dominance.
However, the inability to maintain defensive stability after the interval will be a concern as the War Elephants prepare for a sterner examination against China, ranked 94th in the world.
The draw extends Thailand’s search for consistency under Hudson, but the performance also highlighted the squad’s attacking depth and willingness to create chances against a determined opponent.
Credit Photo : FA Thailand
