Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Bangkok: Thailand recovered from the disappointment of a semi-final defeat to claim third place at the AFC Women’s Futsal Championship 2018 with a 3-2 penalty shootout victory over Vietnam after a scoreless draw on Saturday.
Thailand goalkeeper Pannipa Kamolrat was the eventual hero, saving Nguyen Thi Hue’s effort in the shootout, before Hataichanok Tappakun sealed victory with the decisive spot kick.
The result means Thailand retains the top three finishing position they achieved in the 2015 edition of the tournament in Malaysia.
In an opening period of few clear chances, Thailand largely controlled possession, but it took until the eighth minute for golden boot hopeful Sasicha Phothiwong to test goalkeeper Ngo Nguyen Thuy Linh.
Jenjira Bubpha dispossessed Bui Thi Trang to force the shot-stopper into another save four minutes later, but the hosts came the closest to breaking the first half deadlock when Bien Thi Hang intervened to clear the ball with Sasicha seemingly destined to steer the ball into the gaping net.
After a scoreless opening period, the breakthrough nearly came just 11 seconds after half-time, but Jenjira missed after being put through on goal by Sasicha.
Vietnam responded by creating a wonderful chance for Trinh Nguyen Thanh Hang five minutes later only for Pannipa to produce an important one-on-one save before her teammates arrive to help scramble the ball clear.
www.the-afc.com/en/more/photo/thailand_penalty_-_afcwfc_2018_3rd4th.html
www.the-afc.com/en/more/photo/thailand_v_vietnam_-_afcwfc_2018.html
