Thailand’s women get a chance to make history

By finishing second in their group, Thailand set up a semifinal match against an Australia U-20 side that had impressed during the group stages, which they finished with seven points and a plus-24 goal difference. 

Australia deployed a high-pressure game plan, forcing the defence to clear the ball or face losing it high up the pitch. The bold move paid dividends ten minutes into the match as captain Grace Maher capitalised on a lapse of concentration from the Thai defence to give Australia the lead. 

     However, their relentless pressing left Australia exposed at the back, giving Thailand’s quick forwards space to run in behind. Thailand equalised through Kanjana Sungngoen, who zipped past an Australian defender before sliding the ball under the goalkeeper. 

     The two looked like they would go in level at halftime, but seven minutes from the break Thailand were awarded a penalty, following a rash tackle from Australian goalkeeper. Anootsara Maijarern made no mistake from the spot, finding the roof of the net with ease and giving Thailand the lead. 

     Thailand went into the second half with a lead to defend, but looked keen to add to their advantage from the start. The crossbar denied Silawan Intamee from doubling Thailand’s lead two minutes after the restart. That missed opportunity led to a nail-biting conclusion, with Thailand just managing to hold on and book a place in the final.