Coach Wang Disappointed as Thailand Falls at Asian Games Quarterfinals

Thailand's men's football team lost to China 0-3 and was eliminated at the quarterfinals of the 20th Asian Games in Japan.

After the match, Coach Anucha Damrongrongkulkul said reaching the last eight was a respectable result. He explained that from the opening round, the team aimed to secure three points from two matches before facing Japan. Although most players are 21 years old, they compete in Europe and the J.League, giving Thai players the chance to learn from quality opposition. He noted the team gained insight into what to improve—whether in ball speed, game understanding, or other areas—to strengthen upon returning home.

Regarding China, Coach Anucha said Thailand had faced them four times this year. In previous encounters, Thailand managed to compete, but this time China showed significant improvement. They have been training longer together and brought in senior players, raising their overall quality considerably. He acknowledged that while his players understood China's strengths, they were unable to stop them, and the Chinese team's overall play and execution were superior.

"I feel disappointed," he said. "I wanted the players to achieve better results than when I was playing. But I must accept that China's development is unlike before. Playing them frequently shows their elevation has been considerable."

Coach Anucha added that his contract with the Football Association of Thailand expires this October. He will need to return and discuss a performance review, reporting on the team's development from the first camp through each tournament—what was achieved and what needs to be added to elevate the team further. However, he confirmed he is ready and willing to continue serving the nation, though the decision rests with administrators. "I am always ready," he said.

Coach Anucha also shared that he is among those affected by flooding in the Rangsit area, with water rising to about knee-height since the previous night. He had his family move valuables to the second floor and relocate to Ratchaburi province temporarily. He said his family is supporting him in his duties, and once he returns, they will recharge together.