Thai Football Targets Asian Games Medal After Comeback Win
Thailand's under-23 football team defeated Kyrgyzstan 3-2 from two goals down at the 2026 Asian Games, with former coach Senamuang expressing confidence the squad can win a medal at the continental tournament.
Kiatsakdi Senamuang, former head coach of Thailand's national football team, has pledged his support for all Thai athletes at the Asian Games and expressed hope that the men's football team will bring home a medal. Thailand's under-23 men's football team delivered an impressive performance in their opening match of the 2026 Asian Games, staging a comeback from 0-2 down against Kyrgyzstan to win 3-2 and secure three points according to plan.
Senamuang, a former Thai national player and coach who has previously reached the Asian Games men's football semi-finals both as a player and coach, expressed confidence in the team's prospects. "As athletes who have participated in the Asian Games many times, we believe everyone is already determined," he said. "The Asian Games is a bigger stage than the Southeast Asian Games. I'm confident that Thai sports fans will provide encouragement. Don't feel discouraged—we can already see some organizations raising banners to cheer and fans showing their support. This is an even bigger stage."
He highlighted the team's comeback victory as a positive sign. "Yesterday, football came from behind after being down, and securing three points is on target. I want everyone to perform their best without feeling pressured. For this football team, I think it's a great opportunity for new players to prove themselves. Some fans might ask why certain players aren't included, but if you look carefully, it's an opportunity for others as well."
Senamuang expressed the ultimate goal of winning a medal. "Of course, everyone's target is to win a medal. During my time, we reached the semi-finals and finished fourth twice. This time I hope we can win a medal—any medal. But one thing I want to say is don't feel pressured. Do your job to the fullest. It's our job to cheer them on."
Thailand's men's football team will play their second group match against Hong Kong on September 20 at 2:00 PM at Toyota Stadium. The group winners and runners-up will advance to the semi-finals.
