Report on the survey titled "The Thai National Team's Chances of Reaching the Final Round of the 2027 Asian Cup".
With the Thai senior national football team set to play their final Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Turkmenistan on 31 March 2026 at Rajamangala National Stadium, KBU SPORT POLL, conducted by the Human Capital Development Innovation Center at Kasem Bundit University in collaboration with the Institute of Sports Management for Sports Organizations (WISDOM) and the B Bangpakong Facebook page, surveyed public opinion on "The Thai National Team's Chances of Reaching the Final Round of the 2027 Asian Cup." The survey was conducted online and by telephone interviews from 26-28 March 2026, with a sample of 1,127 people aged 18 and over from all regions nationwide. The sample included 685 males (60.79%), 324 females (28.76%), and 116 LGBTQIA+ individuals (10.47%). Overall analysis found that
Regarding interest in following the matches, the majority of respondents, 84.50%, showed interest, 12.04% were undecided, and 3.46% were not interested.
Regarding the Thai national team’s chances of qualifying for the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup, most respondents, 57.26%, believed there was a good chance; 21.11% thought the chance was low; 18.30% were unsure; and 3.33% believed there was no chance.
On factors influencing the Thai team’s chances to qualify, 30.60% cited the athletes’ potential and ability; 28.02% pointed to the head coach’s capability; 16.00% mentioned the team’s preparation time; 12.05% noted support from the Football Association and fan encouragement; 10.92% considered the opponents’ potential and readiness; and 2.41% listed other factors.
Associate Professor Dr. Ratthapong Boonyanuwat, director of the Human Capital Development Innovation Center, added that despite Thailand’s 1-3 home loss to Turkmenistan in the first match and a weaker head-to-head record, most true Thai football fans still believe that playing at home in front of their supporters gives the team a strong chance to advance to the finals. When considering factors affecting qualification chances, respondents focused on the abilities of the players and head coach, as well as the team’s preparation period.
However, the final match on 31 March this year is crucial and decisive for the Thai national team, as a draw or loss is not an option. Therefore, it is expected that the Thai players, selected by coach Anthony Hudson, will fight with all their might to bring joy to Thai sports fans and most importantly, to secure the last ticket to compete in the 2027 Asian Championship from 7 January to 5 February 2027 in Saudi Arabia.