Thailand appeared to score again three minutes later, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

BANDUNG: Pakistan began their FIFA Asean Cup campaign with a 4-0 defeat to Thailand at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung, Indonesia, on Saturday.

Thailand’s Teerasak Poeiphimai scored twice, while Jude Soonsup-Bell also found the net and a deflection off Pakistan defender Haris Zeb completed the scoring as the Green Shirts endured a difficult start to the tournament.

Ranked 198th in the world and competing as a guest team, Pakistan defended deep during the opening stages as Thailand struggled to create clear chances.

Mohibullah made an important interception, while Ali Raza produced a well-timed sliding tackle to deny Thailand. Goalkeeper Yousuf Butt also made a strong save around the half-hour mark.

Thailand eventually broke the deadlock in the 31st minute. Yousuf initially saved a header from Soonsup-Bell, but Teerasak reacted quickly to score from the rebound.

The hosts doubled their advantage 10 minutes later after Pakistan captain Abdullah Iqbal misplaced a pass. Thailand quickly exploited the error, with Soonsup-Bell finishing from close range.

Thailand appeared to score again three minutes later, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Pakistan improve after halftime

Pakistan coach Nolberto Solano made three substitutions at the interval, bringing on Shayek Dost, Hayyan Khattak and Alamgir Ghazi for Ali Raza, Ali Agha and Abdullah Shah.

The changes gave Pakistan greater attacking intent in the second half. Mohammad Fazal and Haris Zeb pushed forward from the full-back positions as Pakistan enjoyed more possession and created pressure around Thailand’s defence.

However, Thailand gradually regained control and extended their lead in the 60th minute.

Teerasak exchanged passes with Supachai Chaided before striking a left-footed volley. The effort took a deflection off Haris Zeb and looped over Yousuf Butt into the net.

Pakistan attempted to respond, with Abdul Samad Arshad trying a curling effort from outside the penalty area, but his shot missed the target.

Veteran forward Kaleemullah Khan was introduced with 19 minutes remaining as Pakistan looked for a way back into the contest.

Teerasak completes brace

Thailand missed a major opportunity to score a fourth in the 77th minute when a low cross from the left reached an unmarked forward, who failed to make contact with the ball despite being in front of an exposed goal.

Teerasak eventually completed his brace six minutes from full time.

Pakistan failed to clear the ball from their defensive area before Peeradol Chamrasamee sent it forward. Kakana Khamyok then provided a clever touch to put Teerasak through onside.

The striker calmly placed the ball beyond Yousuf to complete Thailand’s 4-0 victory.

Pakistan will now face the Philippines on September 29 before taking on Vietnam in their final group-stage match on October 2.

The national team entered the competition after winning the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament in the Maldives earlier this year, securing their first international title in 74 years.