Hudson Names 23 for ASEAN Cup, Eyes Vietnam Rematch
Thailand coach Anthony Hudson has named 23 players for the ASEAN Cup 2026 in Indonesia next September, with Hudson eager to face Vietnam again after their previous two finals meetings in the tournament.
Thailand national team coach Anthony Hudson spoke following the announcement of 23 players for the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 in Indonesia, running from September 26 to October 5, 2026. Hudson said he was pleased and excited to work with the squad, explaining that the three recent camps—Asian Cup qualifying, FIFA international window in June, and ASEAN Cup preparation—each presented different challenges. In June, players were recovering after a long season and four-week club break, while the ASEAN Cup camp focused on selecting the best available talent.
"From this camp through the Asian Cup early next year, I hope we can select the best players possible. We want the strongest team, develop it, and build toward the Asian Cup," Hudson said. He noted that injuries are a normal occurrence and the team will field its best available squad. Regarding left-back options, Hudson highlighted Chaiyapol Odthan alongside Nicolas Mickelson, praising Odthan's versatility in both left-back and midfield positions and his impressive recent form with Port FC.
Hudson expressed anticipation for facing Vietnam again, recalling their two finals meetings in the previous ASEAN Cup. "Vietnam had the best squad and prepared for over two months. I was satisfied with what our players delivered in both games against their best, though disappointed with the results. Overall, I'm proud of the team," he said. "But we still have one match before facing Vietnam, and I can say everyone is eager and excited to play them again."
The squad will report to Novotel Future Park Rangsit on September 21, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. and train that evening at the BG Training Center.
Thailand's ASEAN Cup 2026 group stage schedule: Matchday 1: Pakistan vs Thailand, September 26, 4:00 p.m., Stadion Sri Jalak Harupat, Bandung, Indonesia Matchday 2: Thailand vs Vietnam, September 29, 7:30 p.m., Stadion Sri Jalak Harupat, Bandung, Indonesia Matchday 3: Thailand vs Philippines, October 2, 4:00 p.m., Stadion Sri Jalak Harupat, Bandung, Indonesia Finals/Third-place match: October 5, Stadion Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, Indonesia
