Zico (Kiatisuk Senamuang) analyzes the Thailand national team under coach Ishii, pointing out that they can surpass ASEAN teams, but must beat all ASEAN opponents.
On 12 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Zico, former Thailand national football player and head coach, gave a detailed analysis in the LIVE: Announcement of 23 Thai national team players preparing to face Turkmenistan in the decisive match for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on Thairath Sport channel.
"Head Bo" Kreekchai Khunto asked Zico to comment on the Thailand national team under Japanese coach Masatada Ishii, known for giving opportunities to young players and focusing on building a future team, though they have not convincingly beaten other ASEAN teams at that level.
Zico confirmed that while there is a concept of surpassing ASEAN, it is also necessary not to overlook the importance of decisively beating teams in the ASEAN region.
"Whether at the national team or club level, we aim to compete at the Asian level, but from my perspective, we must not neglect the ASEAN region. That means we have to win all matches here—we must beat every opponent thoroughly."
"I understand that we hope to reach the Asian level, World Cup, Olympics, Asian Games, and so on. We must prepare accordingly."
"I believe that whether it's Nishino, Ishii, or any coach, including Thai coaches who come in, they want to develop players with their own style. Back in my era, I also wanted my own style—players I trusted on the field who could learn tactics. Coach Ishii is the same, and so is coach Nishino. They want to build players, but naturally, there will be comments questioning why certain young players are chosen. This is part of coaching."
"Everyone must be able to accept criticism. I have to accept criticism. Every coach, especially for the Thailand national team, must be willing to listen to feedback."