Bangkok: The atmosphere was electric as Anthony Hudson took charge of the Thai national football team for their much-awaited friendly match against Singapore. Supachai Jaided is set to lead the attack as the main striker, with Jude Soonsup Bell starting as a substitute. The excitement around Thammasat Stadium began building early, with fans participating in sponsor activities from 4:00 PM.
According to Thai News Agency, Anthony Hudson, the head coach of Thailand’s team, which is ranked 96th in the world, arrived at the stadium with his team, including captain Chanathip Songkrasin and other key players such as Theerathon Bunmathan and Nicholas Mickelson. The match against Singapore, ranked 155th globally, is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM. By 5:00 PM, fans started making their way into the stadium, with 5,000 tickets already sold and more available at prices ranging from 180 to 330 baht, with discounts for students.
Among the attendees were young players from the Chai Nat Provincial Administrative Organization School, the seven-a-side student football champions. They were present thanks to sponsorship tickets, as their academy is registered with the association. However, students from Monthong Wittaya School could not attend due to illness.
Phongsapat Sukkasem, a goalkeeper from the Chai Nat team, expressed his excitement about supporting the Thai national team in person for the first time. Meanwhile, Pauline Ngampring, a former president of the Thai Power cheering group, commented on the fan turnout, noting that dissatisfaction with the association’s management led some fans to avoid the stadium. Despite this, she emphasized the importance of continued support for the national team.
For tonight’s match, Anthony Hudson has chosen a 4-2-3-1 formation. Natthaphong Sayriya and Pansa Hemviboon will anchor the defense, while Theerathon and Sarach control the midfield. The attack will feature Benjamin Davis, Supachai Sarachat, and Chanathip, with Supachai Jaided as the striker. Jude Soonsup Bell will be available as a substitute.
Historically, Thailand has dominated in their last five meetings against Singapore, winning each encounter. Their most recent victory was a 4-2 win in the 2024 ASEAN Football Championship.