China beaten by Thailand in Cannavaro´s first game in charge

China suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Thailand on Thursday in Fabio Cannavaro s first match in charge.

Ranked 43 places below their opponents in FIFA s standings, Thailand secured victory in their opening China Cup match thanks to a 33rd-minute goal from Chanathip Songkrasin.

The result prompted an angry backlash from China fans, with Cannavaro s appointment last week having already caused controversy.

The World Cup-winning former Italy star, who has been head coach of Super League side Guangzhou Evergrande since 2017, was named as Marcello Lippi s replacement for the China Cup tournament.

Speaking last week, the 45-year-old insisted:  These two matches will not decide whether I will continue to act as the head coach of China.

I am here not to be assessed. I have nothing to show now as I can change nothing during four or five days with the national team.

Some people said I am too young and lack experience, but I had a career as an Italian national player for 15 years, I played six finals with Italy and won four of them.

I know far more about major international tournaments than those who have criticised me.  

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