Don’t let Laos catch you off guard (absolutely not). The phrase stresses the importance of not underestimating Laos in the upcoming match.
The curtain has fallen on the 2026 World Cup.
But the “ASEAN World Cup” is about to begin.
The team has already advanced to Vientiane.
For the War Elephants, Thailand’s national football team, led by English head coach Anthony Hudson,
to embark on their mission in the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 group stage, Group B, opening match,
facing host nation Laos on the evening of Saturday, 25 July.
At National Stadium 16 in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, starting at 8 PM sharp.
This ASEAN tournament will likely be the first without live broadcasts on free TV for Thai fans to watch.
Those wanting to cheer for Thailand can follow the live broadcast via the TrueVisions Now application.
A monthly subscription fee of 199 baht is required.
This means fans will no longer watch the matches for free.
Going forward, viewing the national team will require a shift in mindset.
Because everything has a licensing cost that must be paid.
True sports fans should understand this well.
Actually, the ASEAN Cup is the biggest tournament of the AFF, where all nations should send their full national teams.
However, since the competition is not scheduled during FIFA international dates,
each country faces challenges calling up players to represent their nations fully.
Especially Thailand’s national team, where there has long been debate on how much emphasis to place on the ASEAN Championship.
Should they send the U23 squad or young emerging players instead?
Ultimately, the decision settled on a mixed team of experienced players and young talents whose clubs have agreed to release them.
It could be considered a sort of “B team.”
This time, Madam Pang Nualphan Lamsam personally reached out to clubs to secure cooperation.
Because it seems Coach Hudson alone would not be able to manage this successfully.
Therefore, our goal in this ASEAN Cup campaign may differ from previous years.
I believe most fans understand this well.
With Thailand’s national team being the most decorated ASEAN champions with seven titles (1996, 2000, 2002, 2014, 2016, 2020, and 2022)
it is inevitable that they will still be considered among the top favorites regardless of which players are fielded.
But this time, I want Thai football fans to adjust their perspective.
Focus primarily on developing the skills of the young players.
The main focus should be on the coaching approach of Anthony Hudson.
Given the resources currently available.
Overall, I think the team is decent, not bad at all.
It depends on how he demonstrates his tactical ability and team management.
To make the team perform at its best.
So far, the English coach has met expectations and has not lost any matches.
But the playing style has not been appealing, and no clear identity has emerged.
Let’s support Hudson. No one is pressuring him to deliver championships like previous coaches.
Everyone understands the current circumstances well.
We hope that in every match, the team competes fully and gives their best against all opponents.
With a promising style of play that can be built upon for future major continental tournaments ahead.
Starting with the important opening game this Saturday, which matters for fan morale.
The final result is still unknown.
But if Thailand slips and loses to Laos without earning points,
Anthony Hudson’s tenure probably won’t last much longer.
- Bee Bangpakong -