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     Co-host Thailand inscribed a new chapter in the Thai soccer history after they scored the first match win in the Asian Cup following a 2-0 victory over Oman in the group A competition on Thursday.

     Substitute Pipat Thonkanya deserved a thump-up as he played the key role in the historic triumph with goals in the 69 th and 77 th minutes, which kept the Kingdom's hope alive at reaching the final eights.

     Only 20,000 fans showed up at the stadium on Thursday but they were given a big reward with the first Thai ever match victory since 1968.

     "I'm so proud to be the first man to score wining goals for Thailand in the Asian Cup. I gave this as a present for Thai people under the political situation,'' said Pipat.

     "The win  brought back confidence of the team after we had never made into to the next round. It sparkled hope and regained the team's confidence,'' said Thai coach Chanvit Polchivin.

      Thailand is now at the top of the standing but needs the result in the last game against Australia on Monday to decide their fate.