Bangkok, Thailand – Following a stunning upset defeat to the Philippines in the first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 semifinals, Thailand’s national football team is strategizing for a comeback. The 2-1 loss, a historic defeat for Thailand against the Philippines, has left the team facing a must-win situation in the second leg.
On December 29th, at a press conference held at the Rajamangala Stadium, head coach Masatada Ishii addressed the media. He acknowledged the disappointment of the loss, stating, “In the first game, we were disappointed that the result was that we lost. Must come back and fix the issue of losing the goal. As for what we’ve done well I will continue to try to make it better. Even tho there may not be time to actually practice. But we use solutions from team meetings on areas that need betterment.”
Ishii further elaborated on the team’s approach to correcting their defensive vulnerabilities.He explained, “The child who lost the goal, we have already practiced defense.But after we had a meeting and watched the video. Makes it possible to talk again. So that everyone can try to improve so that they don’t concede goals like this again. Including watching the opponent’s play in order to plan the next move.”
The coach also highlighted the importance of player selection and strategic adjustments for the upcoming match. “The main goal is to choose players in this game. That is, how to make those players able to win against the Philippines? And we have to look at improvements and see who can do it well,” he emphasized.
Despite the setback,Ishii expressed confidence in his team’s ability to turn things around. He stated, “In this tournament we have to work game by game. Of course, the current situation is that the Philippines has an advantage over us. From the fact that we lost a goal at the end of the first game. Make our results disadvantageous In our home game, we must win to advance to the next round. We may have lost the last game but when looking at the details we still had good points in each moment. Everyone is still doing a good job. And I believe that in this game we will do well again as well.”
The second leg of the ASEAN Cup semifinals between Thailand and the Philippines is scheduled for December 30th, 2024, at the Rajamangala Stadium. The match will be broadcast live on various platforms, including Thairath TV Channel 32, www.thairath.co.th/tv/live, and various social media channels. Kickoff is set for 8:00 PM local time.
This unexpected turn of events in the ASEAN cup has captivated football fans worldwide, highlighting the growing competitiveness in Southeast Asian football and the Philippines’ remarkable rise on the regional stage.
Thailand ASEAN Cup Hopes Hinge on Comeback Against Philippines
After a historic upset loss to the Philippines in the first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 semifinals, Thailand’s football team faces a must-win situation in the second leg. this shocking defeat has shaken Thai fans and raised questions about the team’s readiness and tactical approach to the tournament. We spoke with Southeast Asian football expert, Dr. Adisai Wattanachaiyakorn to analyse the situation and look ahead to the crucial second leg.
senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: Dr. Wattanachaiyakorn, Thailand’s loss to the Philippines was a major upset. What are your immediate thoughts on the match and this unexpected result?
Dr. Adisai Wattanachaiyakorn: It was indeed a surprising result. Thailand is the traditional powerhouse in Southeast Asian football, and the Philippines haven’t had this kind of success against them in recent years. The Philippines played with a lot of heart and tactical discipline, capitalizing on Thailand’s defensive errors.
World-Today-News.com: What do you think were the key factors contributing to Thailand’s defeat in the first leg?
Dr. Adisai Wattanachaiyakorn: I think Thailand underestimated the Philippines’ determination. They seemed a bit complacent, and that showed in their defensive lapses. The Philippines were also very effective in using their pace and counterattacks to good effect.
World-Today-News.com: Coach Ishii has acknowledged the need to address the defensive vulnerabilities.What specific areas shoudl Thailand focus on improving for the second leg?
Dr. Adisai Wattanachaiyakorn: Thailand needs to tighten up at the back,particularly in the transition from defense to attack. They were caught out of position several times in the first leg. They also need to be more clinical in front of goal. They created chances but failed to capitalize on them.
World-Today-News.com: Can Thailand still turn this around in the second leg?
Dr. Adisai Wattanachaiyakorn: It won’t be easy. The Philippines will be brimming with confidence now. But Thailand has the quality to bounce back. They just need to show more urgency and intensity. The Rajamangala Stadium will be a fortress, and the home crowd will be behind them.
World-Today-News.com: What kind of impact do you think the Philippines’ historic win will have on Southeast Asian football?
Dr.Adisai Wattanachaiyakorn: It sends a clear signal that the gap between the traditional powerhouses and the rest is closing. The Philippines are a team on the rise, and this victory will undoubtedly inspire other countries in the region. We could see ASEAN football becoming even more competitive in the coming years.
world-Today-News.com: Thank you for sharing your valuable insights, Dr. Wattanachaiyakorn
