Today's score: Thailand U23 fought back to draw 1-1 with Iraq, keeping their hopes alive to advance in the Asian Championship.
On 11 January 2026, in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 group stage matchday 2 of Group D, Thailand U23 faced Iraq U23 at the Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium in Saudi Arabia.
In the first half, the 27th minute, Iraq took the lead 1-0 from a penalty awarded after Nathan James fouled Ayman Luay Akanis inside the penalty area. Amouri Faisal converted the penalty, shooting past goalkeeper Chomphat Boonlert into the net.
In the 37th minute, Thailand U23 nearly equalized. Iklas Sanron chested the ball to Thanawut Phochai, who curled a shot from outside the box aiming for the far post, but Laith Sajid dove to make a save.
In the second half, at the 48th minute, Thailand U23 earned a left corner kick. Chavalwit Saelao crossed to the near post where Priphan Wongsa headed alone but mistimed it, sending the ball just wide of the near post.
At the 85th minute, Thailand U23 finally equalized 1-1. A long ball from midfield found Usama Tiangkam, who headed it into the penalty area for Chinneng Phutonyong to run past the Iraqi defense and slot the ball home.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw. Thailand U23 earned their first point, keeping their hopes alive for advancement in their final group match against China U23 on 14 January.
2 Sapol Noiwong, 4 Usama Tiangkam, 5 Nathan James, 6 Sitta Bunla, 7 Thanawut Phochai, 8 Chavalwit Saelao, 9 Theeraphat Prueathong, 13 Vision Inaram, 16 Phitchatchai Siakratok (captain), 18 Iklas Sanron, 23 Chomphat Boonlert (goalkeeper).
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