Thailand Football Team Opens AFC Cup Campaign in Laos

Thailand's national men's football team conducted a training session on July 23 at 5 p.m. at the National Stadium in Vientiane, Laos, in preparation for the AFC Asian Cup 2026 Group B opener against Laos on July 25. The hour-long training focused on physical recovery following the team's arrival. Forward Yasok Burapah expressed confidence before training, saying the team is fully prepared and should require minimal adjustment to the local climate, which resembles Thailand's weather. He emphasized the team has already trained according to the coach's tactical plan to face Laos. "We cannot underestimate any team," Burapah added. "We must prepare thoroughly, communicate well, support each other, and secure victory." He also expressed pride at competing against host Japan in the Asian Games and hopes the team will advance deeply in the tournament. The first match will take place on July 25, 2025, at 8 p.m. at the National Stadium in Vientiane, with live broadcast on TrueVisions Now. Defender Natthapong Sairia stated the team is 80-90 percent ready with two more training sessions planned before the match. He acknowledged the difficulty of playing away in Laos but noted that the team's chemistry is strong, with new and returning players already familiar with each other from the Thai League. He stressed that climate should not be an issue and called for Thai supporters' encouragement.