TPF Uttaradit and Chanthaburi FC played out an instant Thai League 2 classic on 20 September 2026, with Uttaradit edging a seven-goal thriller 4-3 at Uttaradit Provincial Stadium. A hat-trick from Brazilian forward Rafael Silva proved decisive, but only after Chanthaburi had twice clawed their way back into a contest that swung wildly from start to finish.

Match Overview

The home side started with intent, pressing high and forcing Chanthaburi into early errors. That pressure told in the 12th minute when Rafael Silva latched onto a loose ball inside the box and rifled it low past the goalkeeper. Uttaradit doubled their lead in the 34th minute through winger Anucha K., who cut inside from the left and curled a precise effort into the far corner. At 2-0, the game looked comfortable, but Chanthaburi had other ideas.

Deep into first-half stoppage time, striker Chidi Okonkwo pulled one back with a powerful header from a corner, sending the visitors into the break with renewed belief. The second half became a breathless exchange of attacks, and Chanthaburi levelled in the 55th minute when Phuwadon S. finished a quick counter-attack. Rafael Silva restored the lead in the 67th minute, only for Okonkwo to complete his brace and make it 3-3 in the 72nd. Just as a draw seemed certain, Rafael Silva completed his hat-trick in the 88th minute, turning in a rebound after a goalmouth scramble.

Key Moments

• 12' — Rafael Silva opens the scoring for Uttaradit with a composed finish.
• 34' — Anucha K. doubles the lead with a curling strike from the edge of the box.
• 45+2' — Chidi Okonkwo heads home to halve the deficit before half-time.
• 55' — Phuwadon S. equalises after a swift Chanthaburi counter.
• 67' — Rafael Silva scores his second to make it 3-2.
• 72' — Okonkwo completes his brace to level at 3-3.
• 88' — Rafael Silva completes his hat-trick and seals the win.

Tactical Story

Uttaradit set up in a 4-2-3-1 that looked to overload the flanks and feed Rafael Silva early. Their full-backs pushed high, creating numerical advantages in wide areas, and for the first half-hour Chanthaburi struggled to cope. However, the visitors adjusted after the break, switching to a more direct 4-4-2 and targeting Uttaradit’s high defensive line with balls over the top. That change brought them back into the game, but it also left space in behind, which Uttaradit exploited for the late winner. The home side’s willingness to keep attacking rather than settle for a point ultimately paid off.

Standout Players

Rafael Silva was the obvious hero, scoring three goals and constantly troubling the Chanthaburi defence with his movement. His hold-up play also brought others into the match, and his hat-trick goal was a reward for persistence. For Chanthaburi, Chidi Okonkwo was outstanding, scoring twice and winning numerous aerial duels. Midfielder Phuwadon S. also impressed with his energy and his well-taken equaliser. Uttaradit goalkeeper Kittisak P. made two important saves at 3-3 to keep the score level before the late winner.

What the Result Means

The victory lifts TPF Uttaradit into the upper half of the Thai League 2 table, giving them momentum as they chase a promotion push. For Chanthaburi FC, the defeat is a frustrating one after showing real fight to come back twice, but it leaves them still searching for consistency away from home. The seven-goal spectacle will be remembered as one of the season’s most entertaining matches and underlines the competitive nature of Thailand’s second tier.