The Nepali women’s national team lost to host Thailand 2-0 in a friendly played at Thammasat Stadium on Monday.

It was the second friendly between Nepal and Thailand after Friday’s closed-door friendly which Nepal had lost as well, but with the margin of only one goal.

There was one thing in common in both the friendlies: Nepal prevented Thailand from scoring in the first half. This should certainly count as a positive that Nepal can take away from their trip to the Southeast Asian country.

The 25,000-capacity Thammasat Stadium was below its full capacity on Monday but there were enough cheers for both sides. Alongside the Thai locals, Nepalis living nearby had also reached the stadium to support the Nepali team.

With the first half ending in a stalemate, Jiraporn Mongkoldee brought relief to the home side in the 59th minute with a banger from the freekick spot around 30 yards away. Nepal’s goalie Anjila Tumbapo Subba attempted to stop the ball storming towards the far corner but she was unable to get a touch.

The second goal came in the 75th minute. A simple cross by Pichayatida Manowang from the right flank found Chatchawan Rodthong free inside the box. Rodthong, who was captaining after Saowalak Pengnam was subbed off, only had to guide the ball to the back of the net.

There were many more chances for Thailand throughout the game to extend the lead but they struggled with the finish. Nepal, on the other hand, were struggling to even get the ball to the opponent’s box. Star-striker Sabitra Bhandari aka Samba made some good runs but could not make them count.