Thailand U19 coach highly praises Cambodia ahead of the big match

Head coach Chakraphan Panpi states that Thailand U19 is prepared for the semifinal and holds tremendous respect for the remarkable Cambodia U19 side.

Thailand U19 stands on the verge of a major opportunity to move one step closer to the 2026 ASEAN U19 Championship title, as they only have to face the surprising Cambodia U19 in the semifinal round. Although considered the stronger side, the young Thai team still shows considerable caution ahead of the match taking place at the North Sumatra Stadium in Deli Serdang, Indonesia.

Cambodia U19 is the biggest surprise of this year's tournament. Not highly rated before the competition began, but coach Yasuhiro Yoshida's squad has made a strong impression with disciplined, well-organized play and earned a place among the top four teams in the region. This achievement has earned the young Cambodian team respect from many opponents, including Thailand U19.

Speaking before the match, coach Chakraphan Panpi offered positive remarks about the opponent. He shared: “I congratulate the Cambodia U19 team on reaching the semifinals. They have shown great determination in the group stage. Under Japanese coach Yasuhiro Yoshida, Cambodia U19 plays with tactical discipline and a very organized style.”

The Thailand U19 manager continued to emphasize vigilance against the opponent: “They are a strong team, so Thailand U19 does not dare underestimate any opponent at any stage of this tournament. However, Thailand U19 is also ready for the semifinal.” These statements show that Thailand U19 is not complacent even though they are considered the top candidate for a place in the final.

After Vietnam U19 was eliminated early in the group stage,Thailand U19's chances of competing for the title look brighter. However, coach Chakraphan Panpi affirms that his team remains fully focused on each match. He said: “Before participating in this year's tournament, Thailand U19's first goal was to reach the semifinals. Now that we are at this stage, our next goal is to reach the final.”

Concluding the press conference, the Thai tactician emphasized: “We have prepared tactical plans for the semifinal. I want my players to be in the best mental and physical condition before this match. We are not afraid of any opponent in this tournament. We are not in a hurry to think about the opponent in the final, even though host nation Indonesia U19 is very strong and has home advantage, but we do not fear any team. For now, Thailand U19 must focus on the semifinal.” With thorough preparation and high determination, Thailand U19 is aiming to appear in the final match of the tournament.