India Fall to Thailand in 0-2 Friendly Defeat Ahead of Crucial Asian Cup Qualifier

India suffered a disappointing 0-2 defeat to Thailand in an international football friendly on Wednesday, delivering a sobering reminder of the challenges ahead in their AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign. The match, played at the Thammasat Stadium, saw the hosts dominate both possession and opportunities as they comfortably secured victory.

Thailand took an early lead in the 8th minute through Benjamin Davis, who found the net after a well-constructed move split open the Indian defence. The home side maintained control for much of the match, and their persistence paid off again in the 59th minute when Poramet Arjvilai doubled the advantage with a precise finish, effectively sealing the contest.

This defeat marked a reversal of fortunes for India, who had come out on top in their last two encounters with Thailand. Most notably, India triumphed 4-1 during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, a match remembered for Sunil Chhetri’s brace. The veteran striker nearly scored again in the 24th minute of Wednesday’s game, but his glancing header was acrobatically tipped away by Thai goalkeeper Saranon Anuin.

India, currently ranked 127th in the FIFA rankings, struggled to match the tempo and technical finesse of 99th-ranked Thailand. The result exposed weaknesses in India’s midfield coordination and defensive structure—concerns that need urgent attention ahead of the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong on June 10 in Kowloon.

The friendly was part of final preparations for both teams ahead of their respective qualifiers. While India face Hong Kong in a match that could determine their path in the competition, Thailand will take on Turkmenistan in what is also expected to be a pivotal fixture.

India had previously edged past Thailand 1-0 in the 2019 King’s Cup, but the performance on Wednesday reflected a stark contrast. With Chhetri leading a largely youthful squad, India now face mounting pressure to regroup and refocus in time for the decisive qualifier.

Coach Igor Štimac will be expected to address the shortcomings quickly, with tactical adjustments and greater composure needed if India hope to secure a place in the continental championship.