Thailand U-23 Squad Departs for Asian Games in Japan
Thailand's under-23 men's football team departed for Japan on September 12 to compete in the Asian Games in Nagoya, with coach Wang Thawatchai targeting a medal and aiming to improve upon his own playing career achievements.
Coach Wang Thawatchai Damrongtong led Thailand's men's football team of 18 players to Japan on September 12 for the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, with hopes of returning home with medals.
The under-23 squad departed from Suvarnabhumi International Airport for Nagoya. Additional players will join the squad later as they complete their club obligations during the Thai League season. The team has been in camp since September 7 following Thailand's opening Thai League match and held a warm-up game against Bangkok U-21.
Coach Wang said the recent camp and friendly match helped the team understand their game relationships, tactics, and the new rules for the tournament. "The kids did well," he noted. "We have the core structure for our first match, but we're waiting for teammates still committed to their clubs. Those finishing this week will fly to join us. Before our September 16 opener, we'll assess the condition of those arriving later."
Wang expects captain Chanaphatch Buaphun, who has held the position before, to lead the squad. "Our goal is to perform at our best and progress as deeply as possible. If we can bring back a medal, I've told the players I want them to achieve more than I did as a player," he said.
Midfielder Thanakrit Choetmuengbak added: "Everyone is ready for this tournament. Our warm-up gave us a chance to fine-tune our play. Our target is to play our best, advance deep into the competition, and compete well against every opponent."
Young player Wichian Inaaram said: "I know many of the older players well from multiple camps together. While this squad is different from the Southeast Asian Games team, we've all been through several camps. Our goal is to take the team deep into the tournament. In the group stage we want to win all three matches and collect nine points. We ask fans to support Thailand."
Thailand is in Group A with Japan, Kyrgyzstan, and Hong Kong in a round-robin format. The group winner and runner-up advance to the knockout stage. Thailand's first match is against Kyrgyzstan on September 14 at Toyota Stadium at 2:00 p.m.
