Thai U-23 Coach Eyes Deep Cup Run Despite Japan Group

Coach Wang Thawatchai Damrungthongtraakul, head coach of Thailand's U-23 national team, stressed that the squad must think big despite drawing Japan in Group A of the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya. Thailand will compete against Japan, Kyrgyzstan, and Hong Kong in round-robin matches, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals.

"The draw put us with Japan, a top-tier Asian team and U-23 champions, while Kyrgyzstan and Hong Kong are also quality opponents," Wang said. "We need to study their data and form carefully and prepare our team as thoroughly as possible, especially regarding player selection."

Wang explained that his coaching staff has been monitoring all squad candidates across multiple training camps, including those playing for the senior national team in the 2026 ASEAN Cup and players currently based at clubs, focusing on fitness and conditioning.

"We have a preliminary plan for team building across each camp," Wang continued. "We've submitted initial squad names and will submit a final roster of 23 players after coordinating with the federation and clubs to request player releases for the Games."

The coach emphasized setting high goals and aiming for the deepest possible run. "Facing the Asian champion Japan is tough work, as are Hong Kong and Kyrgyzstan. We must prepare well," he said.

Regarding fitness, Wang expressed confidence, noting that the tournament timing coincides with the start of the domestic season when players' fitness is typically good. "If we get all the players from our various camps, tactical understanding will improve significantly," he added.

Wang concluded with an appeal to Thai football fans: "We hope fans will follow and cheer for this Asian Games tournament in Nagoya. Any fans who travel to support from the stadium would be wonderful. We want everyone to join in and encourage all our players."