UDON THANI – The first match of the 2025/2026 Thai League 1 season, sponsored by BYD SEALION 6, ended with Uthai Thani FC and Chiangrai United finishing level at 1-1. The game, played at Uthai Thani Provincial Stadium in muggy 28°C heat, kept fans engaged from start to finish, as both teams picked up their first point of the year in a close contest.
Chiangrai United took charge late in the first half. In the 45th minute, Itsuki Enomoto, their Japanese forward, opened the scoring. Enomoto finished a sharp cross in stride, beating Uthai Thani goalkeeper Apirak Woravong to put the visitors ahead. Chiangrai’s backline remained organized for the rest of the half, keeping Uthai Thani at bay as both teams headed into the break with Chiangrai up 1-0.
Uthai Thani responded with more energy after the restart, determined to please their home supporters. They kept the ball well, with 56.7% of the possession, while Chiangrai focused on staying solid defensively. Marco Ballini and Hélio Batista anchored the visitors’ defence, often blocking Uthai Thani’s attempts. On the counter, midfielder Carlos Iury tried to add a second for Chiangrai, but both sides struggled to find clear chances.
Just when it seemed like Chiangrai would take all three points, Uthai Thani struck late. In the second minute of added time, Mohamed Eisa headed in a brilliant cross to draw the hosts level, sending the home fans into celebration. The late equalizer capped a strong finish for Uthai Thani and left Chiangrai frustrated after holding out for so long.
The match showed different strengths from both teams. Chiangrai won the early moments, while Uthai Thani pressed hard after the interval. Both clubs took about 10 shots on average, while Uthai Thani earned twice as many corners, highlighting their attacking efforts. Chiangrai’s goalkeeper Sirassawut Wongruankhum made nearly three saves, helping his club hold the lead until stoppage time.
Enomoto proved a constant threat up front for Chiangrai, with his goal showing sharp instincts. Eisa delivered for Uthai Thani when it mattered most. The home side’s midfield managed to control possession but could not carve out many big chances, averaging one clear opportunity a match to Chiangrai’s slightly better 1.4.
This draw keeps the rivalry even, with both teams having mixed results in recent seasons. Across their last four meetings, Chiangrai have claimed two wins, Uthai Thani one, and two matches have ended level, including another 1-1 draw in February 2024. Uthai Thani’s big 3-0 home win last September stands out, but this time, Chiangrai stood strong away from home.
Both sides started the season with identical records, and this result keeps them shoulder to shoulder in the league table. Uthai Thani sits 16th while Chiangrai holds 5th, with only goal difference separating the teams after their season-openers. The Thai League 1 tiebreaker system, which values goal difference and goals scored, means every goal this season could prove important, whether for reaching the top or steering clear of relegation.
Looking to the weeks ahead, Uthai Thani will try to turn their home comfort into more wins, while Chiangrai United under manager Wilson dos Santos will continue to rely on their solid defence for success away from home.
They meet again on 15 February 2026 at Singha Chiangrai Stadium, promising another competitive fixture.
Fans eager for the latest updates and statistics on Uthai Thani FC and Chiangrai United can follow live coverage on Sofascore, ESPN and RoyalScore throughout the season.
