Eastern vs Ratchaburi Match Recap - Nov 5, 2025

Ratchaburi Crushes Eastern 7-0, Proving Their Dominance in the AFC Cup

Ratchaburi delivered a stunning performance, dismantling Eastern 7-0 at Tseung Kwan O Sports Ground, further solidifying their status as a formidable force in the AFC Cup. This match was a continuation of a trend that has seen Ratchaburi score 12 goals against Eastern in just two encounters this season. The visitors showcased their attacking prowess, with S. Allardice, Tana, Deni Junior, and I. bin Fandi Ahmad all finding the net, leaving Eastern reeling from yet another heavy defeat.

The scoring spree began in the 52nd minute when S. Allardice opened the floodgates, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Eastern. Just four minutes later, Tana doubled the lead, showcasing Ratchaburi's relentless pressure. The momentum was firmly in Ratchaburi's favor, and they continued to exploit Eastern's vulnerabilities. Deni Junior added to the tally in the 65th minute, marking his fifth goal against Eastern this season, a testament to his remarkable form.

As if to emphasize their dominance, Tana struck again in the 72nd minute, completing a brace and leaving Eastern's defense in disarray. The onslaught did not stop there; Deni Junior found the net once more in the 83rd minute, further highlighting his exceptional ability to convert chances into goals. The final touches came from I. bin Fandi Ahmad, who scored twice in stoppage time, sealing a humiliating defeat for Eastern.

This match starkly contrasted with Eastern's recent form, which has been nothing short of disastrous. With four losses in their last five matches, including two against Ratchaburi, confidence has plummeted within the squad. Their inability to find the back of the net consistently has left them vulnerable, and today's result only exacerbates their struggles. The solitary goal they managed to score in their last five outings came from C. Hall, but it was far from enough to inspire a turnaround.

Ratchaburi's recent form tells a different story. They have been on a roll, winning three of their last five matches and scoring an impressive 15 goals during that stretch. Their attacking trio of Deni Junior, Tana, and Njiva Rakotoharimalala has been particularly lethal, combining for multiple goals across competitions. This match served as a reminder of their offensive capabilities and tactical cohesion, which have made them serious contenders in the tournament.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a closely contested battle fueled by Eastern's desire for revenge after their previous defeat. Instead, Ratchaburi's clinical finishing and relentless pressure turned this fixture into a one-sided affair. Perhaps I underestimated Ratchaburi's momentum and ability to capitalize on Eastern's frailties.

The implications of this match extend beyond just the scoreline. For Ratchaburi, this victory not only boosts their confidence but also positions them favorably as they look ahead to their next match against Nam Dinh. Meanwhile, Eastern faces an uphill battle as they prepare for Gamba Osaka, needing to regroup quickly to avoid further embarrassment.

In conclusion, today's clash was not just about the score; it was about momentum, character, and the ongoing narrative of both teams. Ratchaburi has firmly established themselves as a powerhouse in this group stage, while Eastern must confront their demons if they hope to salvage any pride moving forward. The road ahead is fraught with challenges for both sides, but one thing is clear: Ratchaburi is riding high, while Eastern must find a way to rise from the ashes of this crushing defeat.