Following their opening 2-1 defeat by the Philippines that leaves them bottom of Group A with no points and only a final match against leaders China – whose 3-0 win over Jordan's earlier conquerers today made them the first semi-finalists and also secured one of the five places on offer for next year's FIFA World Cup finals in France, .

Although Jordan were automatically qualified for these finals as hosts, they took part in the qualification tournament and finished top of their group, five points clear of the second qualifiers, the Philippines, scoring 37 goals in just five games.

But any hopes raised by that impressive if unnecessary performance have now been flattened after this underwhelming performance in the King Abdullah II stadium.

With the worst goal difference in the group, minus six, even a shock defeat over China may not be enough to lift the hosts as far as third place, which would see them contest the crucial fifth-place play-off.

Thailand's goal spree means they only need to draw their remaining group A match with the Philippines to reach the semi-finals.

Thailand, beaten 4-0 by China in their opening match, scored in the first minute, through Suchawadee Nildhamrong, and the last, through Pitsamai Sornsai.

In between there were four more goals - a second from Nildhamrong, and others from Taneekam Dangda, Silawan Intamee and Kanjana Sungngoen.

The sole response from Jordan came through Shahnaz  Jebreen two minutes  before half-time.

The Philippines were unable to continue in winning vein, decisiverly beaten despite the fact that their opponents had a player sent-off.

China’s second  Group A win  was set in motion by a close range 17th minute goal by Li Ying.

Ma Jun doubled the Chinese lead just after the half hour with a right foot cross-shot from the edge of the area, and Li Ying scored a second in the 57thminute following a Gu Yasha cross.

China’s Wu Hiayan was dismissed by the referee in the 82nd minute after being given a second yellow card for a second foul.

China have won this competition eight times since it was started in 1975 - five times more than the next country on the list, North Korea.

They have, however, not lifted the Cup since 2006 as the last three editions have seen victories by North Korea, Australia and Japan.

Tomorrow the latter two teams are due to back into action again in Group B matches as Japan, two points clear at the top of the table, play South Korea and Australia meet Vietnam, with both matches taking place in the larger Amman International Stadium scheduled to to host the final on April 20.