Thai fans still criticize their team despite winning against Vietnam U23, Thai U23 coach points out weaknesses

Despite securing a minimal victory over Vietnam U23, Thailand U23's performance at the CFA Team China 2026 tournament has faced mixed reactions from fans.

Fans criticize Thailand U23's poor finishing, coach Thawatchai agrees

On forums and fanpages of the Thai Football Association, many fans express disappointment with the team's finishing ability. Many opinions suggest that young players waste too many good opportunities, even raising concerns about the future of the next generation. However, there are also positive comments praising the pressing style, coordination, and fighting spirit of the Golden Temple team.

On the field, Thailand U23 started dreamily by scoring in the 30th second. Thanakrit Chotimueangpak's shot deflected off a Vietnamese player, leaving goalkeeper Cao Van Binh unable to save.

After the early conceded goal, Vietnam U23 gradually regained control, creating some opportunities but failing to capitalize. In the second half, personnel adjustments helped the white-shirted team play more proactively, but still lacked accuracy in decisive moments.

Overall, Thailand U23 secured a 1-0 victory, temporarily rising to top of the group with 4 points, gaining advantage in the championship race.

After the match, coach Thawatchai Damrong-ongtrakul (nicknamed "Coach Wang") expressed satisfaction with the result and his players' fighting spirit. He rated this as a quality match against a strong regional opponent in Southeast Asia, and praised the players for maintaining focus and emotional control despite pressure.

However, the Thai strategist frankly pointed out that the team's biggest weakness is finishing ability. He regretted that his players created many opportunities in both halves but couldn't convert them into goals, especially in the first half when the attacking rhythm was sometimes too rushed, leading to inaccurate handling.

In this match, Thailand U23's coaching staff also made up to 8 changes in the starting lineup compared to the previous match against China, aiming to ensure fitness and avoid injuries in the dense schedule. The players given opportunities all performed acceptably.

Looking ahead to the next match, coach Thawatchai stated the team will quickly assess player conditions to prepare for the encounter with North Korea U23 on March 31 in Xi'an (China). This match will be decisive for the tournament championship.