Thailand humble India in friendly ahead of Asian Cup qualifier

India's preparation for next week's AFC Asian Cup qualifier did not go well after a 0-2 defeat to Thailand in a friendly at the Thammasat Stadium in Pathum Thani, Thailand on Wednesday.

Benjamin Davis scored the opener in the 8th minute before Poramet Arjvilai's 59th-minute strike ensured a solid win for the hosts. Thailand started brightly and were rewarded early when Phitiwat Sookjitthammakul found Korawich Tasa on the edge of the box. Tasa provided the assist for Davis, who fired past Vishal Kaith.

Indian attack comprised Sunil Chhetri, who had recently come out of retirement. Liston Colaco and Malayali winger Ashique Kuruniyan supported the veteran striker up front.

Manolo Marquez' India had a couple of chances in the first half. Chhetri was denied by Thailand goalkeeper Saranon Anuin, while Kuruniyan scuffed his shot after being found by Colaco. Abhishek long ranger almost went in before Colaco missed a one-on-one with Saranon.

Colaco had another good opportunity after the break from the freekick, but Thailand maintained their narrow lead. India were made to pay for the missed chances shortly before the hour when Poramet scored from a curler, beating Kaith, who was off the line.

India will play Hong Kong in their AFC fixture in Kowloon on June 10. India were held goalless by Bangladesh in their group-stage opener in Shillong in mid-March. Hong Kong and Singapore also played out a 0-0 in their opening fixture.