Today's score: The Thailand U23 national team fought with all their heart before drawing 0-0 with China, ending their AFC U23 Asian Cup campaign.
On 14 Jan 2026 GMT+7, during the final group stage match of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 in Saudi Arabia, the Thailand U23 national team played a decisive qualification match against China U23.
Before the match, Thailand U23 had 1 point from 2 games (1 draw, 1 loss) but still had a chance to reach the quarterfinals by finishing first or second in Group D if they could beat China, who had 4 points from 2 games (1 win, 1 draw).
In the 23rd minute of the first half, Thailand U23 nearly took the lead from a free kick. Chavalwit Saelao delivered the ball into the penalty area where Sitta Boonla headed it, but the ball stayed within reach and was comfortably caught by China's goalkeeper Li Hao.
In the 39th minute, Thailand U23 almost scored again from a corner kick by Chavalwit Saelao. China's forward Behram Abdowali, who had dropped back to defend, inadvertently headed the ball awkwardly toward his own goal, but Li Hao managed a close save. The first half ended 0-0.
Early in the second half, at the 52nd minute, Thailand U23 nearly benefited from another fortunate chance when Priphan Wongsa crossed from the right flank. Chinese defender Peng Xiao misdirected a clearance that nearly resulted in an own goal, but the ball narrowly missed and went out for a goal kick.
At the 57th minute, Usama Tiangkam passed through to Iklas Sanhorn, who broke into the left side of the penalty area and shot from a tight angle, but Li Hao saved the attempt. The ball rolled past the goal line, missing a scoring opportunity.
In the remaining time, Thailand U23 had chances but failed to score. The match ended 0-0, leaving Thailand with 2 points, insufficient to advance, ending their tournament run. China, with 5 points, progressed to the quarterfinals.
23 Chomphat Boonlert (Goalkeeper), 2 Sapon Noi Wong, 4 Usama Tiangkam, 6 Sitta Boonla, 8 Chavalwit Saelao, 10 Chinngeun Phutanyong, 13 Vision Inaram, 16 Pitchatchai Siakratok (Captain), 18 Iklas Sanhorn, 19 Peeranat Buakai, 22 Priphan Wongsa