14-9-2023 (BANGKOK) Thailand emerged victorious in a closely contested match against Malaysia on Tuesday night, securing a 1-0 win and claiming the top spot in Group H of the 2024 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers. The game, held at Chonburi Stadium, saw Yotsakon Burapha’s first-half strike as the decisive moment that propelled Thailand to victory.
With three wins in as many games and without conceding a single goal, Thailand’s flawless performance in the qualifiers solidified their position as group leaders. Meanwhile, Malaysia now hopes to advance to the finals in Qatar as one of the four best second-placed teams.
The match between Thailand and Malaysia was a tightly contested affair, with both teams having equal opportunities to score. However, it was Thailand who managed to break the deadlock in the 20th minute, catching Malaysia off guard.
Purachet Thodsanid made a swift run down the right flank, delivering a well-placed cross to Yotsakon. Evading his marker within a crowded penalty box, Yotsakon skillfully executed a header that sailed beyond the outstretched arms of Malaysia’s goalkeeper, Sikh Izhan Nazrel.
With this victory, Thailand secures their place in the 2024 AFC U23 Asian Cup, scheduled to take place in Qatar from April 15 to May 3. The top three finishers in the tournament will automatically qualify for the Olympic Games, while the fourth-placed team will face a playoff against a team from the African continent.
Expressing his satisfaction with the team’s performance, Thailand U23 coach Issara Sritaro said, “We have achieved our target of claiming nine points and keeping a clean sheet in the event is a big bonus. The Malaysians were very determined and pressured us throughout the match, but our players remained patient and eventually found the goal.”
In the same group, the Philippines secured the third spot with three points, while Bangladesh finished at the bottom after suffering defeat in all three of their matches.
Suphanat Mueanta Joins OH Leuven
Thai football sensation Suphanat Mueanta, aged 21, has signed a one-year loan contract with Belgium Pro League club OH Leuven. The talented striker began his career at Buriram at the age of 15 and holds the distinction of being the youngest player to score in the Thai League 1 and the AFC Champions League.
Suphanat has represented Thailand at various levels, including the U16, U19, and U23 teams, as well as the senior national team, where he has scored four goals in 12 appearances for the War Elephants.
