Pathum Thani, Thailand: Qatar were thoroughly outmatched by the Republic of Korea in a 1-6 defeat at the AFC U17 Asian Cup™ Thailand 2023 Group B opener at the Pathum Thani Stadium on Friday.     Right from the kickoff, both teams displayed their intent to dominate the proceedings. However, it was Korea who drew first blood, courtesy of a penalty awarded in the early stages of the game. With precision and composure, Korean striker Kim Miyongjun calmly converted the penalty, giving his team the lead. The goal put the young maroos on the back foot, and they were determined to make a comeback.   Qatar, fueled by the desire to level the score, mounted a relentless attacking display. Their efforts were rewarded as they managed to find the equalizer through a well-executed display of high pressure. With skillful striker Nasser Babiker facing the goal ultimately scoring a goal that sent the whole squad into a frenzy.   However, Korea quickly regained control of the match, responding to Qatar's goal with increased intensity. Their relentless pressure led to a defensive lapse from Qatar, allowing Korea to capitalize on the opportunity and regain the lead. A swift counter-attack caught Qatar off-guard, and Korea's Miyongjun made no mistake in finding the back of the net for the second time in the match. Yun Do-young then showcased individual brilliance when he dribbled down the right flank, cut into the area and squeezed his effort home in the 31st minute.   As the first half progressed, Qatar fought valiantly to get back into the game. They created several chances and pushed their opponents to the limit. However, Korea's defense stood firm, denying the young Qataris any further opportunities to score. Despite their best efforts, Qatar couldn't find the elusive goal before the halftime whistle, leaving them trailing 3-1.   The start of the second half saw Korea maintain their attacking momentum. Within a few minutes, they extended their lead further, making it 4-1. The goal was a testament to the clinical finishing and cohesive teamwork displayed by the Korean side throughout the match. Qatar, on the other hand, struggled to regain their composure and mount a comeback.   There was more misery for Qatar as they fell further behind in the 55th minute when Yang Min-hyuk dribbled his way into the box before sending a pin-point cross to Baek to score his second goal.   Myung-Jun completed his hat-trick in the 60th minute, scoring off a rebound from close range after El Sharkawy initially kept out Yun Do-Young’s acrobatic effort from inside the box.   As the game progressed, both teams made tactical changes in an attempt to shift the balance. Coach Ibrahim Shafie introduced fresh legs and altered their formation, seeking to find a way back into the contest. However, Korea's defense remained resolute, thwarting Qatar's attempts with disciplined organization and well-timed interceptions.   Despite their best efforts, Qatar couldn't breach the Korean defense again. The match ended with a 6-1 victory for Korea, who displayed their superior attacking prowess and clinical finishing throughout the game.   While Qatar fought hard and showed glimpses of their potential, it was ultimately Korea who emerged triumphant. Their ability to convert opportunities into goals and their solid defensive performance proved decisive in securing the victory. The defeat serves as a learning experience for Qatarj, who will look to regroup and come back stronger in their future matches.