Official website of Asian Cup-2004
November 11

Thailand, expected to qualify for next year's Asian Cup in Chin a with relative ease, face the prospect of missing out on the continental championship after losing to Hong Kong in Tashkent yesterday (Monday).

The defeat was Thailand's third in three qualifying matches following defeats to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan in their first two qualifying games. As a result of last night's game, Thailand occupy last place in the group, with Uzbekistan top.

To qualify for next year's Asian Cup, Carlos Roberto Cavalho's side may well have to win all three remaining games, which will be held in Bangkok between November 17-21.

It is a sad day for Thai football," said the Thai team manager, Tawatchai Sajjakul. "Our goal is to get all three points in the second leg and we will do everything to qualify into the next round."

Hong Kong who took the lead in the 28th minute when an unmarked Siang Sai Ho headed home Wong Sun Liu's cross from the left.

Thailand went all out for attack after the break and were rewarded on 64 minutes when Datsakorn Thonglao got on the end of Therdsak Chaiman's cross to level the scores.

Five minutes later, however, Hong Kong were back in front, Wong Sun Liu who making no mistake.

Thailand pressed forward in search of the equaliser but on two occasions Terdsak was denied from close range as Hong Kong held on for a famous win.

Hong Kong got two chances on the break and were lucky to score," said the Thailand coach after the game.

"We still have a few days to train before the second leg and I believe that all is not lost."

"The players looked discouraged and lacked the energy and desire to win," was the verdict of said Vijit Getkaew, the President of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT).

In the other game on Monday, Uzbekistan drew 0-0 with Tajikistan.

Uzbekistan lead Group A with seven points. Tajikistan are second with five points. Hong Kong are third with four points, while Thailand are last without a point.

Thailand next game is, ironically, against Hong Kong, on November 17.

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