Phumrapee Siribunyakul, goalkeeper for Thailand's U17 national team, shared his disappointment after missing the championship on the Clear Rim Sen program, revealing the demanding student-athlete life in Japan where they train late every day.
On 12 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Phumrapee Siribunyakul, goalkeeper for Thailand's U17 national team and Kashima Gakuen High School, made new history for Thai football by leading his team to the finals of the 104th Japanese National High School Football Championship, becoming the first Thai player to do so. Although they ultimately lost 0-3 to Kamimura Gakuen and finished as runners-up.
The Thai goalkeeper's performance drew widespread praise from fans, especially for his penalty saves, decision-making, and maturity beyond his years, earning him recognition as one of the tournament's standout players.
Phumrapee opened up about this achievement on the Clear Rim Sen program on Thairath Sport channel.
"It exceeded the team's expectations because in our school's history, we had never reached the final before. My coach's best was only the semifinals. I told my coach before the competition that this year I would bring home the championship, but in the end, we were disappointed."
When asked about life at a Japanese school known for discipline and professionalism, even as a student, Phumrapee responded,
"Yes, my school might not be the largest elite in the country, but I find it very suitable for me and highly professional."
The Thai goalkeeper also revealed differences between the student-athlete life in Japan and Thailand.
"It's quite different. At my school, classes run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., then we train with the coach from 3 to 5 p.m., and after that, we usually continue practicing by ourselves until about 8 p.m."
The training after 5 p.m. is extra practice outside the coach's program, a culture embraced by most Japanese footballers, which has naturally instilled a sense of dedication in me.
Regarding his future goals, Phumrapee admitted he still feels disappointed about missing the championship but will use that as motivation.
"I will keep striving to improve myself. I want to catch the eye of J.League scouts and pray that a J.League team will notice me."
At the same time, he clearly affirmed his loyalty to the Thai national team.
"If the national team calls, I'm always ready to return because I am 100% Thai."