Thai Rath 'warns' the Vietnam national team about Thailand's strength

Thai Rath believes that Thailand's performance in the first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinals is enough to make the Vietnam team cautious if the two sides meet in the final.

In the first leg of the semifinal against Singapore, Thailand won 3-1 despite only 27% possession. Thai Rath praised coach Anthony Hudson for his sensible squad management, allowing key players to rest in the final group stage match to avoid suspension risks.

Upon returning to the starting lineup, Teerasak Poeiphimai and Seksan Ratree immediately made an impact. Teerasak scored two goals and provided an assist, while Seksan contributed a goal and an assist.

After five matches in the ASEAN Cup 2026, Thailand have scored 13 goals and conceded only once. Thai Rath admitted that the "War Elephants" have not yet faced a strong opponent like Vietnam, but argued that their performance against Singapore shows coach Hudson's team is playing better than expected.

Thai newspapers commented that if coach Kim Sang Sik's team watched this match, they "might also have to be cautious."

Notably, Thailand fielded up to seven U23 players in the starting lineup against Singapore. Thai Rath views this as a positive sign that a new generation is gradually becoming the core of the "War Elephants."

Thailand only need a draw against Singapore in the second leg to reach the final. However, Hudson's squad must remain cautious as two key players are at risk of suspension for the first leg of the final.

Midfielder Sarach Yooyen and striker Yotsakorn Burapha both received yellow cards in the first leg. If they are booked again in the second leg and Thailand reach the final, both will be suspended for the match on August 22nd.

Thailand continue their preparations for the ASEAN Cup 2026 second leg semifinal against Singapore with a significant advantage after their 3-1 win in the first leg.

Yesterday afternoon, August 17, coach Anthony Hudson's team held a training session at BGTC3 Stadium in Pathum Thani province. However, heavy rain before the session forced the "War Elephants" to delay their plans by about an hour.

In this training session, the Thai coaching staff focused on refining the plans for the second leg, covering attacking organization, defense, and set pieces. This is a crucial step as Thailand edge closer to securing a spot in the ASEAN Cup 2026 final.

Previously, Thailand defeated Singapore 3-1 away in the first leg of the semifinals. Teerasak Poeiphimai scored a brace, while Seksan Ratree netted the other goal, giving coach Hudson's side a significant advantage ahead of the return leg.

Singapore currently ranks 148th in the FIFA rankings, but Thailand still remain cautious. The "War Elephants" need to maintain focus to protect their lead and achieve their goal of reaching the final.

If both teams advance past the semifinals, Vietnam and Thailand will once again face off in a highly anticipated duel in the ASEAN Cup 2026 final.