Bangkok: Masatada Ishii, head coach of the Thai national team, admitted defeat and praised Turkmenistan for doing better after the ‘Changsuek’ team lost 1-3 in the Asian Cup qualifiers.

According to Thai News Agency, the results of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, Group D, match 2, saw the Thai national team lose to Turkmenistan 1-3. The game started with Turkmenistan scoring an early lead just 36 seconds in through Titov Mikhail’s shot. Thailand managed to tie the game in the 35th minute with a header from Supachai Jaided. However, Turkmenistan swiftly regained the lead two minutes later with a goal from Saparmammedov Yilas and sealed their victory with Saparov Megan’s goal in the 66th minute.

After the game, Masatada Ishii acknowledged that Turkmenistan had a clearer strategy and benefited from the cohesion of having about 8-9 players from the same club, which enhanced their understanding of the game style. Ishii noted that despite Thailand conceding the first goal early, they initially played their game in the first half but were hindered by Turkmenistan’s strong defense.

Ishii also addressed the decision to use Benjamin Davis as a substitute, expressing confidence in Davis’s talent and determination but felt other players could perform better in that position. He mentioned the challenges posed by competing on artificial turf, which can affect the athletes’ performance. Ishii remains hopeful that the players will improve in controlling game situations.

The current standings of Group D have Turkmenistan leading with 6 points from two consecutive wins, while Thailand is in second place with 3 points, having won one and lost one match. Sri Lanka follows with 3 points, and Taiwan is in fourth place with no points. The Thai national team is now preparing for the 51st King’s Cup football tournament scheduled for September.