Thailand started strong with a 4-0 victory over Pakistan in their group B opener at Si Jalak Harupat stadium in Indonesia on 26/9. The team dominated the match, scoring four goals: a brace from Teerasak Poeiphimai, a goal from Jude Soonsup-Bell, and an own goal by Haris Zeb.

Coach Hudson expressed satisfaction with the players' performance. He emphasized that Thailand's next focus is physical recovery, thorough preparation, and readiness for their upcoming match on 29/9.

Thailand's English coach Anthony Hudson gives instructions during their 4-0 victory over Pakistan in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 group B opener at Si Jalak Harupat, Bandung, Indonesia on 26/9. Photo: Duc Dong

"Facing Vietnam is the most important match," Hudson stated. "We respect our opponent and will prepare as thoroughly as possible. The coaching staff will monitor other matches, while the players' priority is recovery. They must ensure they are in optimal physical condition and ready to execute the tactical plan with determination and high commitment."

The match between Vietnam and Thailand is expected to determine the top spot in group B, as both teams are considered stronger than the Philippines and Pakistan. The FIFA ASEAN Cup regulations also stipulate that the final will be contested by the two group leaders.

Thailand's squad for the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 includes only 9 players who competed in the ASEAN Cup 2026, though seven of them started against Pakistan. Key players such as Supachok Sarachat, Supachai Chaided, and Nicholas Mickelson came on as substitutes, while Chanathip Songkrasin remained on the bench for the entire match.

Thailand midfielder Chanathip Songkrasin (18) was a substitute in the match against Pakistan in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 group B opener at Si Jalak Harupat, Bandung, Indonesia on 26/9. Photo: Duc Dong

Coach Hudson acknowledged the importance of squad management and player rotation, especially with matches occurring every three days. He expressed satisfaction at not needing to use Chanathip. "I want him to be in peak physical condition and ready for the next match," Hudson stated. "This is not to say I lack confidence in other players. Anyone starting needs high confidence."

In the ASEAN Cup 2026 final, Thailand lost 0-2 in the first leg at their home ground, Rajamangala, then drew 2-2 at My Dinh stadium. This marked the second consecutive tournament where they lost to Vietnam in the Southeast Asian final. Chanathip did not participate in either of these tournaments.

Prior to the FIFA ASEAN Cup, Chanathip declared his desire to defeat Vietnam to regain fan confidence. Historically, Chanathip has never lost to Vietnam, with their two most recent encounters being a 2-0 victory and a 0-0 draw in the AFF Cup 2020 semifinals.

Hieu Luong