A last-minute header by Mahmoud Eid enabled True Bangkok United to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against Yokohama F. Marinos in the first leg of their 2023/24 AFC Champions League round of 16 clash at Thammasat Stadium on Wednesday.
Despite goals from Elber and Kota Watanabe granting Yokohama a 2-0 lead in Harry Kewell’s debut match as manager of the J.League 1 side, Bangkok United managed to halve the deficit with Nitipong Selanon's goal before substitute Mahmoud salvaged a late draw for the home team in the 92nd minute.
Early in the match, Bangkok United appeared dominant, with Willen Mota testing Yokohama goalkeeper William Popp from long range in the sixth minute, followed by a blocked attempt by Rungrath Poomchantuek a few minutes later, thwarted by defender Takumi Kamijima.
Nonetheless, it was Yokohama who broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when Elber redirected a corner from new signing Nam Tae-hee past Bangkok United goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai.
Six minutes later, Yokohama doubled their advantage as Ren Kato fed a pass from Eduardo into the box, where Watanabe was waiting to slot the ball into the net.
The match remained action-packed, with Bangkok United narrowing the gap in the 35th minute when Nitipong seized possession from Kato and scored past Popp.
Just before halftime, Popp made a crucial save from Rungrath's shot, while Nam missed an opportunity to extend Yokohama's lead with a free header.
Yokohama nearly regained their two-goal cushion early in the second half, but Patiwat denied Anderson Lopes and Thossawat Limwanasathian made a goal-line clearance to thwart Kato's follow-up attempt.
The Bangkok Angels pressed for an equalizer in the second half, with Yokohama's defense holding strong. Despite several chances, including missed opportunities from former Arsenal man Ryo Miyaichi, Bangkok United remained persistent.
Ultimately, Bangkok United secured a well-deserved draw in injury time as ex-Persebaya Surabaya player Mahmoud headed in Nitipong's cross, stunning Yokohama, who finished the match with 10 men following Ken Matsubara's red card.
