ASEAN Cup 2026: 'War Elephants' Aim for Full Points

Before departing with the team for Laos, the English tactician said that the Thai team had a positive week of preparation, focusing on tactical refinement and improving the players' fitness, despite the short training camp and the presence of many first-time call-ups.

According to Hudson, the coaching staff's top priority is to help the players quickly adapt to the collective playing style, while also improving their physical foundation, as each player returns from their clubs with different preseason training regimens. He expressed satisfaction with the team's training spirit, especially among the young players and new faces.

The 45-year-old coach emphasized that the immediate goal of the Thai team is to secure all three points in the opening match against Laos, before continuing to refine their playing style through each subsequent game of the tournament.

Hudson also noted that it is normal for players not to be in peak physical condition, as the tournament takes place during the preseason period for clubs. However, he is confident that the team will improve their form after each match.

Meanwhile, according to the FIFA ranking released on July 20, Thailand is ranked 94th in the world and 15th in Asia with 1,250.8 points, unchanged from the previous month.

In the 2026 ASEAN Cup, Thailand is placed in Group B alongside Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Myanmar. After the opening away match against Laos on July 25, the "War Elephants" will successively host Malaysia (August 1), travel to face the Philippines (August 4), and conclude the group stage with a home match against Myanmar on August 8.