Date:08/07/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/07/08/stories/2007070857421900.htm

Sport - Football

Thailand holds Iraq

BANGKOK: Sutee Suksomkit gave Thailand a surprise early lead with a penalty and the Asian Cup co-host hung on for a 1-1 draw with Iraq in the opening match of the tournament.

The Thais went ahead in the fifth minute after Ali Rehema nudged veteran Kiatisak Senamuang, called ‘Zico’ by Thai fans, to the ground inside the penalty area. Sutee calmly slotted in his left-foot penalty shot.

Despite dominating the match, Iraq had to wait until the 31st minute to equalise via skipper Younis Mahmoud’s header.

Mahmoud met Selah Sadir’s free-kick in front as Kosin Hathairatanakook came off his line, nodding it over the stranded Thailand goalkeeper. — AP