"Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul" shares his thoughts after the "Thailand national team" decisively defeated "Hong Kong" in the men's football "Asian Games 2026" group stage match 2.
On 18 Sep 2026 GMT+7, "Coach Wang" Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul spoke after the "War Elephants," Thailand's national team, routed Hong Kong with a 5-1 score in the men's football "Asian Games 2026" group stage match 2.
Recently, "Coach Wang" Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul said, "I don't like the opponent taking the lead, but when our first plan didn't work well, we had a second plan ready. The players did well; the spirit of this team is very satisfying. Since taking charge, everyone is committed to being together both on and off the field. As I've always said, faith will lead them to success, no matter the situation. If the referee hadn't ended the match, everyone would have kept giving their all."
"We planned ahead regarding player selection for each match and managing commitments with their clubs. We started rotating players from the first match. We have a first plan and a second plan. After two games, we have succeeded in securing 6 points, which is good. Facing Japan will benefit the players; to improve, we must be able to compete against the Japan national team."
"Many thanks to the fans, whether those who traveled from Thailand or those working in Japan. Of course, the fans are a crucial support, like the 12th player. Japanese fans have warmly welcomed us, as have all the supporters cheering and encouraging the Thailand national team."
For the next match, "Coach Wang" Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul is scheduled to lead the team against the "Samurai Blue," Japan's national team and the host, in the men's football Asian Games 2026 (Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Men's Football Tournament) group stage, Group A, match 3 at Toyota Stadium, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, on 23 September 2026 at 17:30 Thailand time.