Thailand had to brave some anxious moments before they were able to put down brave Myanmar 3-1 in the second semifinal of the AFF Women’s Championship 2019 here at the Institute of Physical Education (IPE).
With the win, Thailand will now take on Vietnam – who beat the Philippines 2-1 earlier – in the final of the tournament in two days.
“It was a hard game (against Myanmar) but now we are looking forward to the final. Matches against Vietnam have always been very interesting and competitive,” said Thongsombut Rattikan after the game.
In spite of the odds of playing against a World Cup side, Myanmar were the early aggressors as they pushed Thailand back to create the early chance when Wai Wai Aung broke the offside trap in the fourth minute that was denied by Thai custodian Sengyong Yada.
Some ten minutes later, Khin Marlar Tun’s stinger was blocked before Thailand finally carved out their first real chance two minutes later with Sranthaisong Sunisa rising effort.
It was to be the hosts who went ahead on 20 minute with a cross from Pram-Nak Nutwadee that was headed into goal by Somsai Pitsamai.
Myanmar continued to push forward but they just could not find their way through the lanky Nidhamrong Suchawadee as the score remained well into the second half.
In the 68th minute, Win Thingi Tun beat the offside trap but she could not find her way past Sengyong as Thailand went ahead again the 82nd minute with a dipping shot from Thongsombut.
Thailand added their third goal of the game with two minutes remaining on the clock with Thongsombut providing the cross for Intamee Silawan to head home as Myanmar then finally got the goal they were looking for all night with a brilliant shot from some 20metres off Marlar Tun.
RESULTS – 25 August 2019
SEMIFINALS
Vietnam 2 Philippines 1
Thailand 3 Myanmar 1
