Can "Coach Ban" deliver? He emphasizes three key points to "Bangkok" ahead of their ACL2 round of 16 clash with Macarthur.
On 18 February 2026 at the press conference room of Campbelltown Sports Stadium in Australia, Coach Ban Thachathorn Sripan and Rivaldinho spoke at the press briefing for the AFC Champions League 2 2025/26 round of 16 second leg. True Bangkok United will visit Macarthur FC tomorrow (19 February), having won the first leg 2-0.
Coach Ban Thachathorn Sripan emphasized three points to his players: "Tomorrow is a crucial game for us. Although we have the advantage of playing away after winning 2-0 at home, I reminded the players not to be overconfident."
1. "We must play with determination, concentration, and discipline in both offense and defense."
2. "We must also defend against Macarthur's strengths, whether aerial balls or direct plays, just as we did in the first match, as we expect Macarthur to approach the game in the same way."
3. When asked about the game plan for tomorrow—whether the team will try to score first and control the game or focus on defense—Coach Ban responded, "Football depends on the match situation and the pressure the opponent applies. However, our primary aim is to play in our style and adjust as needed, trying to maintain ball possession."
Rivaldinho, the forward for the True Bangkok United, spoke about joining the team approximately 4–6 weeks ago and his feelings during this period: "I feel very happy and am very grateful for the warm welcome from the team. I enjoy playing here and will do my best to adapt, get along with my teammates, and perform well."
The "Angels," True Bangkok United, will compete in the AFC Champions League 2 2025/26 round of 16 second leg against Macarthur FC on Thursday, 19 February 2026 at 18:45 (14:45 Thailand time) at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. The match will be broadcast live on YouTube: BG Sports.
