Songkhla sends young footballers to the world stage! The U12 Songkhla Cup champions prepare to fly to Japan to compete in the “Captain Tsubasa Cup.”
A youth football team from Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, as champions of the 2025 Songkhla Cup youth and community football competition in the under-12 category, is preparing to represent Thailand at the international youth football tournament, the “Captain Tsubasa Cup,” in Tokyo, Japan, on 9 January 2026.
Before departure, the youth football team from Hat Yai was honored by Mr. Supis Pitaktham, President of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization, Mr. Thanit Thongsuk, Secretary of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization, and Mr. Thawisak Aranadon, Chairman of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization Council, who came to send off and encourage the players and coaches at the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization office amid a warm and proud atmosphere. They praised the dedication and talents of the youth preparing to bring honor to Songkhla at the international level.
The 2025 Songkhla Cup youth and community football competition, which concluded last June, continued to generate excitement, enthusiasm, and broad community participation. The highlight was the under-12 age group, whose champion earned the right to represent Thailand for the first time at the international youth football tournament, the “Captain Tsubasa Cup” in Japan.
Mr. Supis Pitaktham, President of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization, said, “The opportunity for Songkhla’s youth to compete internationally is a source of pride for the province and results from the collaboration of all sectors. The Songkhla PAO remains committed to supporting sports activities to create opportunities and a bright future for our youth.”
“I wish all the children to play confidently, give their best on the field, enjoy the game, and gain valuable experience from this competition. Regardless of the results, you are all a source of pride for the people of Songkhla.”
Mr. Thanit Thongsuk, Secretary of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization, stated, “The Songkhla Cup is an important platform that allows youth to showcase their potential. Participating in the Captain Tsubasa Cup in Japan will be an invaluable experience and help elevate the standard of youth football in the province over the long term.”
“I encourage all the youth to perform their best, demonstrate sportsmanship, respect the rules, and believe in their abilities. This international experience will be a crucial step in the football journey of every child.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Thawisak Aranadon, Chairman of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization Council, said, “This group of children is the hope and pride of Songkhla. Representing Thailand on an international stage is a precious opportunity not given to everyone. I urge them to do their best, play with heart, discipline, and sportsmanship.”
The international youth football tournament, the “Captain Tsubasa Cup,” is scheduled for 10–11 January 2026, providing young players from various countries a chance to exchange experiences and develop their football skills at an international level. Following the competition, the Songkhla youth team will participate in a cultural visit and tour of important sites in Tokyo on 12 January 2026 to broaden their cultural understanding and learning beyond the football field before returning to Thailand.