DOHA — In the final Group F clash of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, Saudi Arabia and Thailand battled to a goalless draw at the Education City Stadium on Thursday. This result, combined with Oman's 1-1 draw against the Kyrgyz Republic, solidified Saudi Arabia's position as the group leader, while Thailand secured advancement as the second-placed team. Unfortunately for Oman, with two points, they fell short of qualifying as one of the best-ranked third-placed teams.
Saudi Arabia's head coach, Roberto Mancini, opted for significant changes in the lineup from the previous 2-0 victory over the Kyrgyz Republic, giving goalkeeper Raghed Najjar his debut.
The match witnessed several close scoring opportunities. In the early stages, Saudi Arabia was awarded a penalty after Abdulrahman Ghareeb was fouled in the box, but Thai goalkeeper Saranon Anuin saved Abdullah Radif's subsequent penalty shot. Both teams had goals disallowed for offside – Teerasak Poeiphimai for Thailand and Radif for Saudi Arabia.
In the first half, Salem Al Dawsari's long-range attempt was denied by Anuin, while Worachit Kanitsribampen of Thailand saw his goal ruled out for offside.
The second half saw increased attacking efforts from Saudi Arabia, with Ghareeb actively seeking to break the deadlock but continuously thwarted by Anuin. Jaroensak Wonggorn missed a crucial opportunity for Thailand.
A noteworthy moment occurred when Saudi Arabia’s Talal Haji, at 16 years and 131 days old, became the second youngest player to feature in the AFC Asian Cup, nearly scoring on his debut.
The goalless draw maintained Thailand’s record of not conceding in the group stage, alongside Qatar. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's quest for a perfect nine-point group stage continued to elude them.
