Theerathep Winothai, known as "Leesaw," posted his reaction after the Thailand national team defeated Turkmenistan to qualify for the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup.
Following Thailand’s 2-1 win over Turkmenistan, accumulating 15 points, they secured first place in Group D and earned the right to advance to the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
During the match when the score was tied 1-1—a result that would have sent Turkmenistan through—there was a moment when Turkmenistan’s goalkeeper, Rasul Sharuyev, lay down injured on the field. Many Thai fans suspected this was a time-wasting tactic since he had not been involved in any physical contact.
Then, after Thailand took a 2-1 lead late in the game, Patiphat Kummae, Thailand’s goalkeeper, also suddenly lay down as if injured. Leesaw posted on Facebook following Thailand’s victory:
“I just want to lie down and sleep at home, not here. No need to cry. Really happy for the Thailand national team.”
“Today’s game was very strange, but the result was what we wanted. Everything’s settled. Let’s keep moving forward.”
A clip on social media showed Leesaw shouting on the field, “Mueng, you can lie down! GU can lie down! Why not?!”
Summary of the 23 teams qualified for the 2027 Asian Cup finals (one spot remains between Lebanon or Yemen):
Saudi Arabia, Australia, Iraq, Iran, Uzbekistan, Qatar, UAE, Japan, South Korea, Oman, Palestine, Bahrain, Jordan, China, Indonesia, North Korea, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Singapore, Vietnam, Tajikistan, Thailand, Lebanon or Yemen.
The final round of the 2027 Asian Cup will take place in Saudi Arabia from 7 January to 5 February 2027.