June 4, 2025 | Thammasat Stadium, Thailand —
The Indian Football Team suffered a 0-2 defeat against Thailand in a FIFA International Friendly on Wednesday. Despite showing moments of promise, India failed to convert chances and were punished by a sharp and clinical Thailand side.
Thailand, ranked 99th in the FIFA World Rankings, started the match strongly and took the lead in just the 8th minute. Midfielder Ben Davis scored a powerful goal after a smart setup from Korawich Tasa. India’s defense was caught off guard, and goalkeeper Vishal Kaith had no chance to stop the shot.
India, ranked 127th, didn’t give up. The Blue Tigers grew into the game with some creative play, especially from Liston Colaco on the left flank. He worked well with captain Sunil Chhetri and forward Ashique Kuruniyan to test the Thai defense.
India’s best chance in the first half came in stoppage time. Chhetri played a beautiful through ball to Colaco, who ran behind the Thai defenders. But his one-on-one shot was saved brilliantly by Thai goalkeeper Saranon Anuin.
At halftime, India trailed 0-1 but had shown good energy and intent.
Second Half: Missed Chances and a Killer Blow
In the second half, India continued to press. Colaco once again tested the keeper with a free-kick, but couldn’t find the net. Then came a turning point. A poor pass in midfield gave Thailand the ball, and in the 59th minute, Poramet Arjvilai scored with a curling shot that beat Kaith at the far post.
India brought on fresh legs including Lallianzuala Chhangte, Suhail Bhat, and Brandon Fernandes. Chhangte tried to make an impact with a solo run, but the Thai defense held strong. Defender Anwar Ali also made a key block to deny Thailand a third goal near the end.
Despite the defeat, India showed some good football, especially in the first half. Head coach Manolo Márquez will be hoping to improve the team’s finishing and reduce defensive mistakes before their next big match.
What’s Next?
India will now focus on their upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Hong Kong on June 10. With more sharpness in attack and better concentration in defense, India will aim to bounce back.
Match Summary:
- Thailand 2-0 India
- Goals: Ben Davis (8′), Poramet Arjvilai (59′)
- Venue: Thammasat Stadium, Pathum Thani, Thailand
- Date: June 4, 2025
India Starting XI:
Vishal Kaith (GK), Anwar Ali, Sandesh Jhingan (C), Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Sunil Chhetri, Ayush Chhetri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Ashique Kuruniyan, Asish Rai, Tekcham Abhishek Singh.
Substitutes Used: Lallianzuala Chhangte, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Brandon Fernandes, Boris Singh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat.