Laos had planned to hold the fort against SEA Games football gold medal favourites Thailand but were unable to stem the red tide as the defending champions ran riot in a 6-0 win at Bishan Stadium on Friday evening.

The War Elephants made it clear at their opening Group B match that they are the team to beat at the 28 th SEA Games, dominating the Laotians from start to finish.

Bristling with firepower, Thailand enjoyed superior possession and cutting edge in attack with striker Chananan Pombubpha lighting up the occasion with a four-goal personal haul.

Choketawee Promrut's side enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 lead at half-time courtesy of goals from defender Narubdin Weerawatnodom, Chananan and midfielder Nurul Sriyankem.

Chananan continued his ruthless plunder of the Laos backline to net three more goals in the second-half.

Thailand will next play Timor Leste at Bishan Stadium on Monday while Laos will continue their campaign with a clash against Brunei at the same venue on Sunday.