"We were delighted to secure our spot in the final after defeating Vietnam," Hudson stated following the loss to the Philippines in Bandung. "Beating a team undefeated in 27 matches was satisfying. Consequently, we opted to rest between five and seven players for this game. This decision ensures the team is in the best condition for the final, which we view as a positive situation."

HLV Anthony Hudson converses with Nicholas Mickelson after Thailand's loss to the Philippines in the final match of Group B FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 at Si Jalak Harupat stadium, Bandung, Indonesia on 2/10. Photo: Changsuek

Thailand had already topped Group B and secured a place in the final after winning their first two matches against Pakistan and Vietnam. Coach Hudson intentionally altered the lineup for the final group stage game against the Philippines. Key players such as Chanathip Songkrasin, Sarach Yooyen, and Nicholas Mickelson were benched, while Jude Soonsup-Bell led the attack, with support from Supachok Sarachat and Anan Yodsangwal.

According to Hudson, the Thai national team made about eight or nine player changes compared to the previous match. He aimed for key players to have more rest rather than continue playing in a game that would not affect their top position in the group. "The reason for so many changes, as I mentioned, was to ensure the players we will use are in a fresh physical and mental state," the English coach explained. "If we were required to win this match to advance, it would have presented a completely different challenge."

The personnel changes led to a slow start for Thailand. Heavy rain delayed the match for about one hour, making the pitch slippery. In the 3rd minute, the Philippines took the lead, marking Thailand's first conceded goal in the tournament. This goal allowed the Philippines, ranked 43 spots lower in FIFA, to surprise their opponents.

Thailand then controlled possession but lacked attacking threat. Midfielders frequently made inaccurate passes, allowing the Philippines to easily neutralize attacks. Thailand finally equalized in the 55th minute through a moment of individual brilliance from Iklas Sanron.

Thailand continued to press and created opportunities to take the lead. Notably, Jude Soonsup-Bell faced the Philippines goalkeeper but failed to convert. Immediately after this missed chance, Thailand paid the price. In the 68th minute, Andre Leipold broke down the right wing and delivered a cross for Kristensen to tap in from close range, completing his brace and securing a two-one victory for the Philippines.

Thailand (blue jerseys) during their loss to the Philippines at Si Jalak Harupat stadium, Bandung, Indonesia on 2/10. Photo: Changsuek

Hudson later introduced Chanathip and other key players to increase offensive pressure. However, these substitutions did not turn the tide. Thailand suffered their first group stage defeat, though they still maintained the top spot in Group B. "I am disappointed with the result of this match, as we wanted to win," he added. "But ultimately, resting many players to ensure they are fully ready, putting the team in the best condition for the final, was the correct decision."

Thailand's objective is the final against Indonesia in Jakarta on 5/10. Hudson regards the opponent after Indonesia's 9-2 victory over Bangladesh in their final group match, which secured their place in the championship decider. The Thai coach noted that Indonesia had previously endured intense matches against Malaysia and Singapore. He assessed the host nation as having many dual-nationality players who are tall, strong, and mobile, alongside a team spirit and unity.

The FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 final is set for Jakarta, where Indonesia will enjoy strong support from their home crowd. Hudson believes the atmosphere in the stadium could motivate both teams further. He has spoken with many players and observed that the entire squad is eager for the tournament's most important match.

Meanwhile, the third-place match, also on 5/10, will see Vietnam face Malaysia at the Gelora Bung Karno stadium.

Xuan Binh