Thai coach determined to defeat Vietnam in Asian tournament

Coach Nuengrutai Srathongvian expressed full confidence ahead of Thailand's U20 women's team meeting Vietnam's U20 women's team at the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026 finals.

Thailand's U20 women's team experienced a tough start in their opening match of Group A at the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026. Despite playing at home, the Thai girls had to exert great effort to reverse the situation and secure a 3-2 victory over Bangladesh.

After the match, Coach Nuengrutai Srathongvian admitted the team did not play according to the planned tactics in the first half, but quickly adjusted and achieved the set goals. She also praised the fighting spirit and impressive comeback of her players.

Specifically, she stated: "The players felt some pressure and nervousness playing at home for the first time. That prevented us from executing our practiced style of play in the first half.

However, after the break, the whole team discussed, encouraged each other, and reminded themselves of the preparations. Consequently, in the final 20 minutes of the second half, the players gradually regained confidence and played according to their true style. I am very satisfied with the team's fighting spirit, effort, and unwavering determination."

With this win, Thailand's U20 women's team temporarily ranks second in Group A with three points, equal to China but inferior in tie-breaker criteria. In the next match, the host team will face Vietnam's U20 women's team, a direct competitor for the second-place spot, which also means a ticket to the quarter-finals.

Coach Srathongvian affirmed the team will strive harder in the upcoming match, especially improving confidence, to help the "War Elephants" secure advancement early.

The 1972-born coach added: "We identified mistakes to correct, while also finding ways to limit Bangladesh's strengths and exploit their gaps. The key is that players must always remember the team's playing style.

In the next match against Vietnam, we will try to perform better, especially regarding confidence. I believe it will be an exciting match, as both teams understand each other and Vietnam has also prepared very thoroughly."

After the first round, Vietnam's U20 women's team temporarily ranks bottom of the group following a 0-3 loss to China. According to tournament regulations, the top two teams from each group and the two best third-place teams will qualify for the quarter-finals. This is the basis for Vietnam's U20 women's team to continue hoping to compete for a spot in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026 finals.

The match between Vietnam's U20 women's team and Thailand's U20 women's team will take place at 20:00 on April 4.