Thailand Edges Lebanon in Thrilling AFC Beach Soccer Asian Cup Clash

The Group A match, played under the floodlights in Pattaya, showcased the intensity and flair of beach soccer as both teams traded blows in a contest that swung back and forth. Lebanon, coming off a strong 5-4 win against Kuwait in their opener, struck first, with Mohammad Saleh proving to be a standout performer. Saleh’s clinical finishing saw him net a hat-trick, giving Lebanon a commanding lead at various points in the match. His goals, marked by precision and power, showed Lebanon’s attacking prowess and kept them in contention throughout the game.

Thailand, the host nation, responded with resilience. Rattaphong Nadee, who had already made an impact in their 3-0 win over India on Thursday, continued his fine form, scoring a spectacular goal that leveled the score late in the third period. The Thai side, buoyed by a vocal home crowd, displayed their experience and composure, with Komkrit Nanan and Jake Stoten also finding the back of the net to keep the pressure on Lebanon.

As the clock ticked down, the match seemed destined for extra time, with the score locked at 4-4. However, in a heart-stopping finish, Thailand capitalized on a defensive lapse in the final seconds. A swift counterattack ended with a decisive strike snatching victory from Lebanon’s grasp and sending the Jomtien Beach Arena into loud applause and cheers.

For Thailand, the win ensures their progression to the quarter-finals, building on their strong start to the tournament. The host nation, seeded first in the draw, demonstrated why they are considered one of the favorites to challenge for the title held by Iran and secure one of the three available spots for the 2025 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Seychelles.

Lebanon, despite the loss, showed their potential to compete with Asia’s best. The defeat leaves them with three points after two matches, and their hopes of advancing now hinge on their final group-stage game against India on Monday, March 24. A victory there is essential for Lebanon to keep their quarter-final dreams alive, though they will need to shore up their defense after conceding late in consecutive matches.

The match was a testament to the growing competitiveness of the AFC Beach Soccer Asian Cup, with both teams delivering an entertaining spectacle. Lebanon’s Ahmed El Khatib, who scored twice in their opener, reflected post-match on the need for improvement: “It’s a tough loss, but we have to learn from it and come back stronger against India.”

Thailand’s coach, meanwhile, praised his team’s determination. “The boys showed heart tonight,” he said. “To win like that, in front of our fans, is special. But we know the job isn’t done yet.”

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Group A’s final matches to see who joins Thailand in the knockout stages. For now, the hosts celebrate a hard-fought triumph, while Lebanon regroups for what promises to be a must-win showdown.

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