Thap Luang United Edge Samut Songkhram City in Thai League Cup Thriller

Thap Luang United secured a 2-1 victory over Samut Songkhram City in the Thai League Cup on 12 September 2026, advancing in the knockout competition after a tense and hard-fought encounter. A late goal proved decisive in a match that was evenly contested for long spells, with both sides creating enough chances to win it.

The Thai League Cup is known for its unpredictable nature, and this tie lived up to that reputation. Thap Luang United took an early lead, were pegged back after the break, and then found a late winner to spark celebrations at the final whistle. For Samut Songkhram City, it was a bitter exit, but their performance showed why they are a dangerous cup opponent.

Match Overview

Thap Luang United started brightly and took the lead in the 21st minute through Teerapong Srisuwan, who latched onto a through ball and slotted it past the advancing goalkeeper. The home side controlled possession for much of the first half, with their midfield trio dictating the tempo and preventing Samut Songkhram from building any rhythm.

After the interval, Samut Songkhram City came out with renewed urgency. They equalised in the 54th minute when Kittisak Chaiyaphum curled a fine effort into the top corner from just outside the box. The away side then pushed for a second, but Thap Luang United defended resolutely and gradually regained a foothold in the match.

Key Moments

• 21' – Thap Luang United 1-0: Teerapong Srisuwan runs onto a defence-splitting pass and finishes confidently.
• 54' – Samut Songkhram City 1-1: Kittisak Chaiyaphum bends a superb strike beyond the goalkeeper.
• 88' – Thap Luang United 2-1: Wichaya Boonmee scores the winner with a close-range finish after a goalmouth scramble.

Tactical Story

Thap Luang United lined up in a flexible 4-3-3, looking to overload the wide areas and deliver early crosses. Their pressing was intelligent in the first half, forcing Samut Songkhram into several misplaced passes. However, they sat deeper after the equaliser, inviting pressure and allowing the visitors to dominate territory for a period.

Samut Songkhram City switched to a more direct approach in the second half, using two strikers to pin back Thap Luang's centre-backs. The equaliser came from a moment of individual brilliance rather than a sustained move, but it gave them belief. In the end, Thap Luang's substitutions made the difference, with fresh legs in midfield helping them regain control and find the late goal.

Standout Performers

Teerapong Srisuwan was a constant menace with his movement and link-up play, while Wichaya Boonmee's impact from the bench proved decisive. Samut Songkhram's Kittisak Chaiyaphum was the best player on the pitch for long stretches, driving his team forward and scoring a goal worthy of any cup tie. Thap Luang's goalkeeper also made two crucial saves to keep the score level before the winner.

Season Impact

The win sends Thap Luang United into the next round of the Thai League Cup, where they will face another challenging opponent. For Samut Songkhram City, the focus now shifts to league commitments, but they can take heart from a spirited display. Cup runs can define a season, and Thap Luang United will hope this late victory becomes a springboard for greater consistency.