Thailand edge Sri Lanka 1-0 in AFC Qualifier

Action from the match between Thailand and Sri Lanka 

By Susil Premalal 
Thailand edged out Sri Lanka by a solitary goal in their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand yesterday. 
Forward player Patrik Gustavsson netted the match winning goal for the home side moments before half time as he pushed the ball to the bottom of the arch while mesmerising the Sri Lankan goal-keeper Sujan Perera in the 43rd minute.
Thailand, inspired with this goal, started the second half positively and almost scored the second goal on resumption but the shot ended up hitting the post. 
Earlier, both teams intended to attack soon after the kick-off but the home side showed more character in that aspect and were able to consolidate in the construction of play since holding the ball.
Thailand of course, had more possession in the initial stages and they distributing the ball throughout the field, looking for spaces in an attempt to attack but the visitors were equally brilliant and were well positioned in defence.
Thailand had an outstanding ball mastery and the Sri Lankans showed themselves very badly in this commitment. The visitors came into this game hoping for a win but now with this defeat, they will have much to reconsider.
Sri Lanka’s next match of the tournament will be against the Chinese Taipei on June 10.
Referee: Zhang Lei (China).