Chile battle the last straw for Thais

Chile battle the last straw for Thais

A triumph could see Chaba Kaew advance

Thailand's Kanjana Sungngoen (left)= celebrates with Taneekarn Dangda after scoring against Sweden. (Reuters photo)
Thailand's Kanjana Sungngoen (left)= celebrates with Taneekarn Dangda after scoring against Sweden. (Reuters photo)

Thailand aim to qualify for the second round of the Women's World Cup with a win against Chile in their last group game on Thursday.

Although the Chaba Kaew suffered two massive losses -- 13-0 to the US and 5-1 to Sweden -- in their first two Group F matches, they can still reach the next round with a victory over Chile if results in the other groups go their way.

The top two teams of each group and four best third-place sides advance to the last 16 round.

"The game against Chile will be our last hope as both teams want three points," Thailand coach Nuengruethai Sathongwien said on Tuesday.

"We can still hope to qualify for the knockout stages with a simple win if results in Group D and E go our way."

In any case, Thailand have to beat newcomers Chile to stand any chance of advancing to the second round.

The Chaba Kaew's confidence has been boosted by their first goal at France 2019.

Veteran forward Kanjana Sungngoen was on target in her team's 5-1 defeat against Sweden on Sunday.

Against Chile, who are also seeking their first point, Thailand will be without forward Taneekarn Dangda who is suspended after receiving two yellow cards.

"We are disappointed that Taneekarn is unable to play against Chile. She has been in fine form and understands our tactics. But this should not be a big problem as we have other players who can play in her position."

Orathai Srimanee, another forward, is nursing an injury sustained during the match against Sweden, the coach said.

"Our doctor is taking care of her closely. I think she should be fit for the match," Nuengruethai said.

"We are doing better and looking forward to the game against Chile. Certainly, we aim to beat Chile."

It is Thailand's second World Cup appearance having made their debut four years ago.

At Canada 2015, the Chaba Kaew, also coached by Nuengruethai, had two 4-0 losses to Germany and Norway but defeated fellow debutants Ivory Coast 3-2.

The Thais missed out on a place in the second round on goal difference.

Do you like the content of this article?
COMMENT (2)