Saowalak stars in Thai romp

TOR CHITTINAND

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Thailand kicked off their AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers Group B campaign with a 4-0 victory over Timor Leste at Chiang Mai's 700th Anniversary Stadium on Thursday night.

Thailand captain Saowalak Pengngam hit a first-half hat-trick, while substitute Ploychompoo Somnuek scored the fourth goal in stoppage time.

The Chaba Kaew are third in Group B, level on points with India, but behind the Blue Tigresses on goal difference. Iraq top the standings with four points from two games.

Timor, who drew 0-0 with Iraq in their opening match, came under pressure as early as the second minute with goalkeeper Gorette Da Costa denying Pattaranan Aupachai’s volley from inside the box.

However, Saowalak broke the deadlock three minutes later when Pattaranan’s shot was blocked but the rebound fell kindly for the Chaba Kaew forward to convert from close range.