The final of the 2023 King's Cup will be between Thailand and Iraq. Previously in the semi-finals, the two teams defeated Lebanon and India, respectively.
The Thai team was considered weaker but started the match confidently. The home team's first chance was a shot over the bar by midfielder Phala. This seemed to be a good sign for coach Polking's team but they unexpectedly conceded a goal.
In the 6th minute, from a not-so-dangerous throw-in, the Thai defense paused as the ball reached Aymen Hussein. This player easily defeated Chatchai Budprom to open the score of the match.
The Thai team faced many difficulties against Iraq in the final of King's Cup 2023.
The goal affected the mentality of the Thai team. They could only pass the ball back and forth against Iraq's solid defense. Thailand had to rely on high passes from Theerathon or Sarach. However, the tall defenders of the West Asian team easily blocked them.
In a deadlocked match, the Thai team unexpectedly equalized. 4 Iraqi defenders stood in the penalty area but let Mickelson get behind them. Player number 12 received Theerathon's cross before heading the ball home.
In the second half, the Iraqi team took the initiative to play slowly, giving control of the ball to Thailand. But they were still the team that created the first opportunity. In the 48th minute, the away team player jumped higher than everyone else to head the ball into the top corner, but goalkeeper Chatchai had an excellent reflex.
However, Chatchai could not correct all the mistakes of the Thai defense. In the 65th minute, Iraq counterattacked sharply before Amjed Attwan comfortably finished in the penalty area. Chatchai dived as far as he could but could not prevent the second goal.
Thailand pressed forward. They were awarded a penalty but Teerasil Dangda missed. However, Phala made up for his mistake by equalizing in the 82nd minute. After 90 minutes, the match ended in a 2-2 draw and the winner had to be decided on penalties.
Pathomphol was the only one who missed. The Thai team lost 4-5 on penalties and watched Iraq win the 2023 King's Cup. Thus, the home team has not won this tournament for the last 4 consecutive times.
Result: Thailand 2-2 Iraq (4-5)
Scorers: Aymen Hussein (6'), Mickelson (37'), Amjed Attwan (65'), Phala (82')
Van Hai
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