"Coach Wang" Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul highlights the positives in Thailand U23's 0-0 goalless draw against China.
On 14 Oct 2025, Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, head coach of Thailand's men's U23 national football team, spoke after the CFA International U22 Men's Friendly Match.
In that match, Thailand's SEA Games squad drew 0-0 with China's national team.
"This was our second game against China. We tried several players I had never worked with before, including Atthaphon Sangthong, Chinngeun Phutanyong, Yotsakorn Nathsit, and Vision Inaram. They all performed well. For many, it was their first time playing abroad. Overall, they did well, giving us more options for upcoming tournaments," Coach Wang said.
"We still have many issues to fix, but I commend this squad. Since our first match against China, their team spirit, emotional control, and ability to handle pressure have been impressive. Everyone tried to help and play unitedly with determination. Whether veterans or newcomers, all have shown they can rotate and perform well."
"Our next goal is the SEA Games. Playing this friendly against China taught us a lot, and we will face them again in the AFC U23 Championship. Applying these lessons against ASEAN teams should help us improve and prepare well for the SEA Games."
"Regarding defense, since the closed match, we haven’t conceded from set pieces. We told the players our goal because we had conceded from set pieces in almost every match. Facing China, who have tall, strong players attacking via crosses, our players kept a clean sheet. We improved side defense after conceding in the first game. We did better this time. I ask fans to continue supporting this squad."
After this, the Thailand SEA Games team will return immediately, expected to arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on 15 Oct 2025 at around 13:00. The coaching staff will hold another meeting to prepare for a training camp in November, ahead of major tournaments: the SEA Games hosted by Thailand from 9-20 Dec 2025 and the AFC U23 Championship final in Saudi Arabia from 6-24 Jan 2026.
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