Thailand coach seeks good result against Vietnam

“We have brought the best U23 squad possible to Uzbekistan. The team are ready and excited to play,” Worrawoot told a press conference Wednesday.

Thailand have made significant changes since the defeat against Vietnam in the gold medal match of SEA Games 31 on May 22. Worrawoot had since taken over the team from national coach Mano Polking. He decided to keep only 10 players from SEA Games and called up another 14 for this tournament. Among 24 players in the Thailand squad, nine are playing overseas.

Worrawoot also congratulated Vietnam for winning the gold medal of SEA Games 31. He said Vietnam had played really well as the hosts, but also emphasized that U23 Asian Cup is a different level and Thailand are confident to get good results when playing Vietnam again.

“Thailand are different from the squad that played in SEA Games as we have better preparation. Of course, I don’t think there is a big difference between the level of Vietnam and Thailand. Therefore, the opening game tomorrow will be a tough one. The target of Thailand is to win from one to three points,” he said.

The Thailand coach also complimented the quality of Vietnam players and said they are still a strong team despite working with a new coach.

“Not just Vietnam, I think the other two teams South Korea and Malaysia also have great players. The competition in group C will be challenging. Thailand will have to focus game by game,” Worrawoot added.

Thailand will play Vietnam on Thursday, at 10 p.m. (Hanoi time). The game will be reported live on VnExpress International.