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Thailand secured crucial three points in their AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualification journey with a 2-0 victory against Taiwan on Thursday evening, although coach Masatada Ishii cautioned his players they need to enhance their goal-scoring ability.

The win in the third group game was secured through goals from substitute Seksan Ratree and captain Chanathip Songkrasin, helping the War Elephants regain momentum following a inconsistent beginning in the qualifiers.

Ranked 101st in the FIFA world rankings, Thailand were considered strong favorites against Taiwan, who sat at 173rd. Supported by an enthusiastic local audience at the Rajamangala National Stadium, they pushed forward from the first kick and controlled the pace for the entire match.

Thailand nearly scored within the first two minutes as a corner was delivered to Benjamin Davis, whose shot was stopped by midfielder Jhon Benchy and then cleared away. Five minutes later, Supachok Sarachat coordinated well with Jaroensak Wonggorn, but the latter’s attempt was directed straight at goalkeeper Huang Chiu-lin.

The hosts maintained control of the ball and created opportunities. In the 34th minute, Jaroensak took a shot from afar, but his effort went over the crossbar. Ishii then brought on Seksan to inject energy into the midfield — a decision that would soon have a significant impact.

Six minutes into the second half, Supachok made a precise cross into the penalty box, and Seksan timed his sprint perfectly, jumping to head the ball past Huang, giving Thailand a 1-0 lead in the 51st minute.

The second goal came in the 77th minute following a defensive error in the Taiwanese defense. Saringkan Promsupa was the first to react to a loose ball, heading it towards Chanathip, who calmly placed the ball into the net to secure the outcome.

Following the game, Ishii commended his team’s dedication but highlighted the importance of more precise execution.

“The Japanese coach expressed appreciation for the players’ efforts during the 90 minutes and their high press in the opponent’s half,” said the Japanese tactician.

What we need to focus on is increasing our goal tally when we encounter the same opponents again [in the return match on Tuesday].

Skipper Chanathip stated, “I’m pleased to have scored, but it’s even more important that I thank my teammates for assisting in creating the opportunity.”

We were aware that Taiwan would adopt a deep defensive strategy, and we needed to remain patient in the stationary positions because, with patience, an opportunity would arise.

Meanwhile, Ishii has selected Santiparb Channgom and Songwut Kraikruan to take the place of Jonathan Khemdee and Jaroensak, who withdrew because of injuries following Thursday’s match.

Right wingback Santiparb from Chonburi and central defender Songwut of Muang Thong United will be added to the team as the War Elephants get ready for the second match against Taiwan on Tuesday at Taipei Municipal Stadium.

Thailand started their campaign with a 1-0 victory against Sri Lanka, but then lost 1-3 to Turkmenistan. Thursday’s win has moved them to six points from three games, while Taiwan stay at the bottom of the group with three losses.

In another match held on Thursday, Sri Lanka defeated Turkmenistan 1-0 thanks to a second-half goal from Leon Manimeldura. The South Asian team climbed to six points, while Turkmenistan saw their unbeaten record come to an end. Both teams are set to face each other again in Arkadaq next Tuesday.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).