We will go to the World Cup... in this generation
And finally, the "La Roja" Spanish national team
has proudly claimed the 2026 FIFA World Cup title as expected.
They have earned their second star on their jersey, fulfilling their heartfelt desire.
After narrowly defeating the defending champions, Lionel Messi's Argentina, 1-0 in extra time,
the scoreline appears close and not far apart.
But those who watched the overall gameplay would say Spain dominated the match in a "one-way" fashion for almost the entire 120 minutes.
This truly is a World Cup champion worthy of great respect and honor in this tournament.
Spain's strength lies in excellent teamwork and efficiency,
not relying on any single superstar to carry the team alone.
Combined with a solid defense, throughout the tournament's eight matches,
Spain conceded only one goal to their opponents!
This is why coach Luis de la Fuente's squad, nurtured from youth levels,
has perfectly entered a "golden era" of Spanish football (once again).
They lifted the Euro 2024 trophy before becoming the latest World Cup champions two years later.
Following in the footsteps of predecessors who achieved greatness by winning Euro 2008,
then the 2010 World Cup, and successfully defending the Euro 2012 title.
This remarkable Spanish team was witnessed firsthand by "Madam Pang" Nuansap Lamsam, our Thai football chairperson,
at the sidelines of MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA, last night.
It is hoped that the Iron Lady will be inspired and passionate about reviving Thai football momentum,
to push for Thailand’s chances to qualify for the World Cup finals against other Asian nations.
Especially for the 2030 World Cup in four years, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has proposed increasing the number of teams from 48 to 64,
and plans to present this idea at the FIFA committee meeting after the 2026 World Cup concludes.
This will be a serious study of the feasibility of the proposal.
Infantino stated that every nation should have the opportunity to dream of participating in the World Cup.
All teams worldwide have very high quality, and it will only continue to improve.
If smaller nations are not given a chance to compete in the World Cup, they will lose motivation to continuously develop themselves.
This FIFA president's idea is likely to positively impact Asia's quota for the next World Cup.
Asia may receive an increased number of slots, possibly 10 to 12 teams.
This will certainly increase opportunities for ASEAN nations to raise their flags at the World Cup finals.
The chances will definitely be greater!
Although Thailand's current national team development lacks clear direction,
and there is no well-defined strategy to meet goals as there should be,
now that FIFA is hinting at expanding access to the World Cup,
smaller Asian countries should build teams full of hope.
The "War Elephants" will also be able to compete more fiercely with other nations.
Take the moments of success and inspiration from attending this World Cup final,
and use them to further develop the Thai national team as much as possible.
Thai football to the World Cup... in this generation,
must not be just a dream... Madam!!!
- Bee Bangpakong -