Thailand were given a footballing lesson by a superb Japanese side who strolled to a 2-0 victory in Bangkok. If anyone was wondering how Japan would react to their surprise defeat by the United Arab Emirates, it didn’t take them long to find out.
From the first whistle, Thailand were left chasing shadows as the speed of movement and passing by the visitors were outstanding. The home side rarely managed to get out of their own half as the Japanese midfield dominated possession.
The defence worked manfully with goalkeeper Kawin having an outstanding match as he almost single-handedly kept his side in the game. But the harsh reality is that Thailand were never in the hunt as the gulf in class became profoundly evident.
Goals by Haraguchi and Asano in either half were scant reward for the Japanese superiority . It now leaves Thailand with a nigh-on impossible task to qualify for the 2018 finals.
It was always going to be difficult but last night showed how far Thailand have still to go. They have made great strides and there was no shame in last night’s defeat. It simply underlined the long road that still lies ahead.