Thailand finally broke through 10-man Vietnam to win 1-0 in their Group F opener for 2018 World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Sunday.
Thailand, coached by Kiatisuk Senamuang, dominated possession and scoring opportunities in the first half at Rajamangala National Stadium but was unable to convert.
Vietnam's Minh Chau Nguyen was sent off in the 71st minute for a second yellow card and Thailand finally struck in the 80th when substitute Pokklaw A-Nan shot home off a pass from Teerasil Dangda.
The match took place earlier than other qualifiers as several players from both sides are due to play in the SEA Games in Singapore, starting June 5.
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