Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul spoke candidly after Thailand's national team delivered a resounding victory over Timor-Leste in the opening group stage match of Group A at the 2025 ASEAN Games.
On 3 Dec 2025, Coach Wang, Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, shared his thoughts after the Thai "War Elephants" team triumphed decisively over Timor-Leste with a 6-1 score in the opening Group A match of the 2025 ASEAN Games, a regional sporting event involving Southeast Asian countries.
Coach Wang, Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, commented after today's match:
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Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul gave an interview following the first men's football match at the SEA Games.
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Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, head coach of Thailand's men's football team for the SEA Games, spoke after the first Group A match at the 33rd SEA Games.
In that match, Thailand defeated Timor-Leste 6-1.
"First, I must thank all the clubs for their cooperation and for releasing players to represent the nation at the SEA Games, which has strengthened our squad and contributed to this result. The first half was not easy; we had faced Timor-Leste before in Indonesia, and it was still a tough game," Coach Wang said.
"Regarding the scoreline, when Indonesia won 4-0, our fitness was lower but they were more prepared and playing at home. We saw Timor-Leste put up a strong fight and pressured us a lot. We were fortunate not to concede many goals and managed to score near the end of the first half. In the second half, we brought on attacking substitutes to score more goals."
"Our plan remains the same. I have talked with all the clubs since many teams have upcoming schedules this week. Some players may need to return to their clubs for training. Key players like Kkhana and Iklas are being managed carefully to reduce risk. Initially, we struggled to pressure them, so we will adjust. With more game time, I believe our performance will improve, especially in the next matches including the semi-finals and final, where we aim for better balance."
"We have to consider rotation and have time to fine-tune before facing Singapore. Players returning to clubs need monitoring, and those who play a lot require rotation. We cannot underestimate any team, including Singapore and Timor-Leste. Despite today's big win, our focus is not just winning but ensuring fans enjoy watching this hungry, passionate team, whatever the outcome."
"Thanks to the fans, perhaps because the match was at Rajamangala Stadium, a large venue, attendance was not sparse. We appreciate their support for the team and staff. I believe fan numbers will grow in upcoming matches. Thanks also to Association President Nualphan Lamsam, who visited the training ground yesterday to encourage us, came to the dressing room today, and awarded the players a 500,000 baht bonus. We are very grateful."
"Attaphon Saengthong was injured before the final squad submission. He has been with us through many camps and has strong bonds with coaches and teammates. He is part of this strong team and regrets missing out. I called him on the injury day; he expressed strong desire to play. I believe he will return and maintain professionalism, not just at U23 level but can progress further. This victory is shared with him as if he were still in the team."
Thailand's men's football team at the SEA Games will next face Singapore in their second Group A match at the 33rd SEA Games, held at Rajamangala Stadium on 11 December 2025 at 19:00 GMT+7.
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Coach Wang, Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, will lead the Thai "War Elephants" U23 team in the second Group A match of the 2025 ASEAN Games on 11 December 2025 against Singapore's "Lions" at Rajamangala Stadium, kickoff at 19:00 GMT+7.