China bests Thailand in international friendly

World
Europe

01:49

A clinical China overcame a soggy pitch to register an emphatic victory over Thailand in a friendly game at Rajamangala National Stadium on Saturday night. Wu Lei scored a brace to help the visitors ward off a spirited challenge from the home side even though the Chinese had less possession throughout the game.

Thai coach Milovan Rajevac fielded a three-pronged attack comprising of Teerasil Dangda, Chanathip Songkrasin, and Sanrawat Dechmitr as the hosts came out firing on all cylinders from the word go. However, China coach Marcello Lippi emphasized on counter-attacks against their attacking rivals and that gamble did pay off in the end.

China's midfielder Wu Lei (L) celebrates after scoring a goal during the friendly football match against Thailand at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok. /VCG Photo

China took the lead against the run of play in the first half as a poor clearance by Thailand's defense allowed China forward Xiao Zhi to shoot past goalkeeper Kawin Thamsatchanan but a Thai defender’s attempt to clear the ball from the line went in vain as Wu Lei found the back of the net to take the lead for his side.

The hosts, in search of an equalizer, turned more aggressive and attacking but failed to convert any of the scoring opportunities.

Then, much to the disappointment of the home crowd, the visiting side doubled their lead with Wu Lei's long-range shot deflecting off Sarach Yooyen into the net after 73 minutes.

Subsequently, Thailand’s efforts to reduce the lead didn’t pay off and the match ended at 2-0 in China’s favor.