Exclusive: Hudson reveals behind-the-scenes story of bringing 'Rodtang' to support the Thai national team before qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup (video)
On 20 April 2026, Anthony Hudson, head coach of the Thai national team, shared previously unknown details on the program "Clear Rim Sen" on Thairath Sport about the behind-the-scenes work before the crucial match to qualify for the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup.
Thailand's national team hosted and narrowly defeated Turkmenistan 2-1, clinching the top spot in Group D and successfully securing their ticket to compete in the final stage of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, achieving their goal.
Anthony Hudson revealed that during the Thai national team's training camp ahead of facing Turkmenistan, he invited Rodtang Jitmuangnon, a top Thai Muay Thai fighter and ONE Flyweight Muay Thai world champion, to assist with the players' mental readiness.
Hudson views Muay Thai as a sport that embodies Thai pride, and Rodtang, one of his favorite fighters, has a story of resilience and never giving up in the ring. He believed this would help inspire the Thai national footballers to be mentally prepared to fight against Turkmenistan.
The Thai coach said, "Rodtang is a great example to everyone in the country—his strength, resilience, spirit, and refusal to give up. Given the context of the match against Turkmenistan, I brought Rodtang to speak with the players to support their mental state."
"There is someone willing to risk their life between life and death, so I brought Rodtang to help the players understand the strength and readiness to risk everything to fight for something."
