Thailand, one of the pleasant surprises of the first round of the FIFA Futsal World Cup Brazil 2008, were eliminated on Wednesday after a dramatic 3-2 loss with Portugal, who also head for home. The lively Asians made heavy work of it for the Lusitanians, grabbing what looked like a late equaliser, only to see their hopes dashed in stoppage time.

It looked it was going to be an easy day for the Portuguese when, in only the second minute, Arnaldo hammered home to put them up 1-0. Slowly but surely, though, the Thais hauled themselves back in the contest. On 19 minutes they were level through Eekapong Suratsawang.

Six minutes into the second half, Portugal were up again. This time it was Israel who belted home from close range to make it 2-1. The Thais refused to go away, though, and with one minute to go, Panuwat Janta struck to draw level at 2-2.

Portugal's Cardinal then struck the decisive blow in the dying moments and seal a 3-2 win.

Thailand finish their excursion on four points from four Group B games. Portugal, for their part, are also out as their goal difference is inferior to Paraguay and Italy, who both move on to the next round.

Orlando Duarte, Portugal coach
Our goal was to qualify for the next round. As a result all our hard work has been in vain. We played a good game but our fate wasn't in our own hands today.

Jose Pazos, Thailand coach
This team can mature and go far, because it's a young side and has quality. It's true that they haven't gained much experience yet, but of course they have a good chance of making progress.