Tajikistan’s first ever victory at the tournament was secured by a late Manuchehr Safarov goal in the final minutes of added time, reports the Bangkok Post.
Iraq stunned defending champions Saudi Arabia 2-1 in the other group match on Monday night and the two West Asian sides advanced to the quarter-finals from the pool.
The result meant heartbreak for Thailand with the Southeast Asians having been in prime position to book a spot in the next stage.
Despite the disappointing end for Thailand, who looked well placed to advance, head coach Issara Sritaro is optimistic about the future.
“It was an unexpected result, but the boys did really well. I am sorry we couldn’t do what everyone expected of us,” said Issara.
“The problem is the recovery between each game. It was pretty difficult for our players to be in their peak condition physically. We created a lot of chances but couldn’t finish them.”
Issara added that his young War Elephants side had potential.
“I would give a big credit to all the boys. They performed better than we expected. There were some outstanding players like Erawan Garnier, Waris Choothong, and both our centre-backs Channaphat Buaphan and Songwut Kraikruan.”
Meanwhile, Thailand’s futsal team will face Iraq in the quarter-finals of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup at Bangkok’s Indoor Stadium later today.