Anthony Hudson reveals the key tactic the Thailand national team will use to overturn the situation and defeat Vietnam to win the ASEAN Cup 2026.
On 24 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Anthony Hudson, the English head coach, stated that working well and successfully will be the crucial turning point for the "War Elephants," the Thailand national football team, as they aim to overturn the situation and defeat the "Golden Stars," the Vietnam national football team, to claim the ASEAN Cup 2026 title.
Anthony Hudson said, "Yesterday was a recovery day for the players who participated in the previous match, and we did some light training with those who played. The players who didn't play had a full training session. This morning, we had a practice session before traveling to Vietnam, focusing on the final small details. Tomorrow, the main focus is to keep our players as fresh as possible, and we will have one more training session in Vietnam."
"Regarding team trials, it wasn't really that, because this is the preseason period for each club and their players. During this time, clubs conduct friendly matches to test players. So, the last 6-7 games in this tournament are not about trying out the team but about giving players match fitness and developing their fitness levels. At the same time, we have a basic focus on match results. So, calling it a trial isn't entirely accurate; we're simply adapting to the situation and trying to ensure players get match-fit."
"As for preparing to face Vietnam in the second game, we can't reveal much, but the important thing is that everyone—myself, the staff, and the players—still have confidence going to Vietnam. As I said, in the first game, we had chances to score but couldn't convert them, which was unfortunate. The Vietnam goalkeeper was named Man of the Match, which says a lot. The key is to prepare well. Once we arrive in Vietnam, everyone believes we can cause problems for Vietnam on their home ground."
"Comparing this game to the one against Turkmenistan, there is a clear difference. The context is different because the match against Turkmenistan was during a FIFA window, allowing us to select players from any club. Importantly, that was in March when players were mid-season. This time, it is not a FIFA window and falls in the players' preseason. I want to thank the clubs and the association for their cooperation in allowing player selection because at first, I barely had any players available, and no one expected us to reach this point. Thanks to everyone. Most importantly, when we reach Vietnam, we are not there to take a trip; we want to work hard and succeed."
Meanwhile, Jehanafi Mama, a forward for the Thailand national team, said, "This is definitely a tough match. After the first leg, we are behind on the score. We will try our best to get a victory back. There is a lot of motivation within the team to avoid complacency and to score the first goal as soon as possible to open up the game."
"I think we need to be cautious about counterattacks and maintaining our physical condition to last the full 90 minutes. We are confident now. The senior players are encouraging the juniors, and the younger players are following the lead. I want to ask for support from the fans. For those who can attend the stadium, please come in large numbers. For those watching from home, please cheer for the Thailand national team through the broadcast."
The Thailand national team will arrive at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, Vietnam, at approximately 20:20. They will have another training session at My Dinh Stadium on 25 August 2026 before continuing the competition.
The "War Elephants," Thailand's national team, will visit the "Golden Stars," Vietnam's national team, in the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2026 final on 26 August 2026 at My Dinh Stadium, Vietnam, with kickoff at 20:00 Thai time.