Nakhon Ratchasima’s wingers posed a constant threat in the first half, with Greg proving particularly elusive for the Port defense. He orchestrated the opening goal in the 16th minute, setting up Nattanan Biesamrit to give the visitors the lead.
Just five minutes later, Greg was brought down in the box, leading to a penalty that Dennis Murillo coolly converted. At the end of the first half, the score was Nakhon Ratchasima Mazda FC 2-0 Port FC.
However, the tide turned dramatically in the second half as Port FC roared back to life.
The introduction of Asnawi and Noboru in the 31st minute solidified the defense and helped the home side gain control of the midfield. Teerasak Poeiphimai, brought on at half-time, proved to be the game-changer, scoring two crucial goals to bring Port level. The first goal was assisted by Suphanan Bureerat. The second goal was assisted by Worachit Kanitsribampen.
The winning goal came in the 55th minute through Suphanan Bureerat, and Worachit Kanitsribampen added a fourth in the 87th minute to seal a resounding victory for the home side. Peeradon Chamrasamee scored the final goal in the 94th minute.
Data Deep Dive
A closer look at the statistics underscores Port FC’s second-half dominance. Despite trailing at the break, Port FC finished the match with 72% possession and an xG of 2.74, compared to Nakhon Ratchasima’s 0.95.
This dominance stemmed from their relentless pressing and effective wing play, which forced Nakhon Ratchasima into a more direct approach. The visitors’ long ball success rate was a mere 27.2%, compared to Port’s 7.5%, highlighting their struggles to bypass the home side’s midfield.
Port FC also created significantly more chances, registering 20 shots compared to Nakhon Ratchasima’s 6, and earning 19 corners compared to just 1 for the visitors.
The home side’s passing was crisp and accurate, with an overall pass completion rate of 87.9%, significantly higher than Nakhon Ratchasima’s 70.1%.
Other Scores:
Nongbua Pitchaya 1-1 Rayong
Uthai Thani 0-0 Buriram United
BG Pathum United 2-0 Mungthong United
ChiangRai United 0-1 Ratchaburi FC
Sukhothai 1-3 Bangkok United
Prachuap 1-0 Nakhon Pathom
Khon Kaen United 0-0 Lamphun Warriors.
Simon Causton is the host of ‘A Thai Football Podcast’ and writer of the ’Football Siam’ blog which covers all things Thai football.