Bangkok: The "War Elephants," Thailand's national football team, are accelerating their physical recovery in preparation for their upcoming match against Vietnam in the final of the 2026 ASEAN Cup. Thai fans will have the opportunity to watch this crucial game live on free-to-air television.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai national football team, known as the "Chang???" (War Elephants), held a training session at BGTC 3 in Pathum Thani province. This session was in preparation for the first leg of the ASEAN Championship final against Vietnam, who recently achieved a 2-0 victory over Malaysia (4-0 on aggregate). The training was delayed by 30 minutes due to heavy rain, with the focus primarily on recovery and regaining fitness.
Wanchai Jarunongkarn, the team's left-back, acknowledged Vietnam's strength but emphasized the importance of securing a home victory with multiple goals, which would provide an advantage for the away game. He encouraged fans to support the team, promising that everyone will give their best efforts to win the championship.
Chanathip Songkrasin, a member of the victorious Thai teams in the 2014, 2016, and 2020 ASEAN Cups, offered encouragement to the younger players and coaching staff. He expressed gratitude for their sacrifices and dedication to the national team, highlighting the challenges overcome on their journey to the final. Chanathip urged Thai football fans to rally behind the team for both final matches.
The first leg of the final is scheduled for August 22nd at 8:00 PM, with Thailand taking on Vietnam at Rajamangala National Stadium.
Discussions regarding the live broadcast of the final match on free-to-air television have been ongoing. Mr. Surasak Panjaroenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, met with Mr. Tanukiat Chanchum, Manager of the National Sports Development Fund, and "Madam Pang" Nualphan Lamsam, President of the Football Association of Thailand. They explored the possibility of allowing Thai fans to watch the match live. The National Sports Development Fund is considering budget support for True Visions, the rights holder, to facilitate this broadcast. "Madam Pang" is actively negotiating with True Visions on suitable budget figures, as the final match date approaches.
TrueVisions Now has invited the press to a conference where Mr. Ongart Prapakamol, Head of TrueVisions and Media at True Corporation Public Company Limited, is expected to announce favorable news regarding the live broadcasts for Thai football fans.