Anthony Hudson reveals the team's readiness ahead of Thailand's clash with Vietnam in the second leg of the 2026 ASEAN Cup final.
On 25 Aug 2026, Anthony Hudson, head coach of the Thailand national football team, spoke about the team's readiness ahead of their match against Vietnam's national team in the 2026 ASEAN Cup final second leg tomorrow evening, Thailand time.
Anthony Hudson said, "Although we lost the first game 0-2, we created many chances and had several key moments, including a potential penalty opportunity. We had clear chances to score, and the opposing goalkeeper, who was named Man of the Match, reflected how the game went. Of course, we were disappointed with the scoreline, but overall, we came here confident. Tomorrow, we will take the field with belief."
"Football carries many emotions. This tournament has been long and demanding with continuous travel and tough times. As a team, we've been together a long time. I think we played well in the first game, but tomorrow will be different. With respect to Vietnam, they are a very strong team. I believe we created many chances and deserved more from that match."
"After the game, there were many emotions. We must remember that we played well and have confidence in our form. The competition is not over yet—that's how I feel. I do not blame Vietnam for celebrating with their fans after the game; I respect them. But these are my feelings. Our team is full of young players. I love working with this squad; every Thai player in this group has done very well. Everyone works hard, and the fans have supported us greatly. Many young players have quality and energy. For me, tomorrow's game, we need to play without fear, full of determination to face Vietnam on their home ground, show our abilities and quality, and focus solely on the match."
"I have experienced similar situations before in my career, but comparing situations directly is not possible. My duty is to focus on the task ahead and do my best. I have confidence in this squad and am excited for the game tomorrow. I want everyone to go out and show who we are, demonstrate our quality with pride. This is the team’s best effort, and that’s what I tell all the players."
"I think the important thing now is that it is preseason. Getting everyone to gel and reach fitness is crucial. We have strong support from the Football Association and all clubs, even though it's a challenging time because clubs are preparing their teams during preseason. Meanwhile, Vietnam brought their best squad, had a long training camp, and traveled to train in South Korea before this tournament. This preparation is excellent and explains how they reached the final. But the contexts for Thailand and Vietnam are different."
"This is a new game. We must try to create as many chances as in the first match and improve our sharpness in front of goal. I have confidence; we've talked a lot as a team after the last game. I believe everyone is ready to give their all tomorrow. We must credit Vietnam’s goalkeeper for an incredible performance in the previous game, but we are here to fight to the end, not just to finish the game. We must try to change the situation and respond with our performance."
Anthony Hudson is scheduled to lead the Thailand national team against Vietnam in the 2026 ASEAN Cup final second leg at My Dinh Stadium, Vietnam, on 26 Aug 2026.
20:00 Thailand time