The 2024 runners-up dominated possession from the outset, though Lebanon’s defence proved stubborn in the early exchanges, reports the Bangkok Post.
Thai captain Itticha Praphaphan spurned two promising opportunities inside the opening six minutes, first firing over the bar and then dragging wide in a one-on-one with goalkeeper Karim Joueidi.
Joueidi was kept busy throughout the first half, producing a string of saves to deny Krit Aransanyalak and Therdsak Charoenphong, before parrying a fierce drive from Muhammad Osamanmusa in the 16th minute.
Lebanon threatened sporadically on the counter, with Thai keeper Nuttapong Yeemarep forced into a diving stop from captain Mustafa Rhyem.
Yet Thailand’s patience was rewarded midway through the second half. In the 27th minute, Worasak Srirangpirot broke the deadlock with an audacious backheel finish from inside the circle, leaving Joueidi rooted to the spot.
Osamanmusa then doubled the advantage, shrugging off his marker before unleashing an unstoppable long strike.
Head coach Rakphon Sainetngarm praised his side’s discipline against a physically strong opponent.
“The first game is always a difficult game and Lebanon focused on long balls,” he said. “The score of 2-0 for me is not important, but the important thing is that we did not concede a goal and got three points.”
Thailand will face Kuwait tomorrow, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm at the Jakarta International Velodrome.