ASEAN Cup 2026: Thailand extends record streak

In the Group B opener played at the Laos National Stadium, Thailand quickly controlled the game and led 2-0 in the first half thanks to goals from Teerasak Poeiphimai and Kokkhana Khamyok. The turning point came in the 43rd minute when Laos defender Phetdavanh Somsanith received a straight red card for a foul on Yotsakorn Burapha in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper.

Taking advantage of the numerical superiority, coach Anthony Hudson's players scored three more goals in the second half through Yotsakorn Burapha, Sarach Yooyen, and Kokkhana Khamyok, securing a 5-0 victory and temporarily topping Group B.

This victory marked the eighth consecutive time Thailand has won its opening match in the ASEAN Cup 2026, dating back to 2012. In this streak, the "War Elephants" have beaten the Philippines (2012), Singapore (2014), Indonesia (2016), Timor-Leste (2018, 2020, and 2024), Brunei (2022), and most recently Laos in the 2026 tournament. The last time Thailand failed to win its opening match was in 2010, when they were held to a 2-2 draw by Laos.

However, the decisive win did not satisfy Thai experts and fans. Former national player Sarayut Chaikamdee, nicknamed "Joe 5 Yards," said the team showed limitations in physical fitness, as many players showed signs of cramps from around the 75th to 80th minute. He also questioned the coaching staff's tactical adjustments when Thailand, leading 5-0 and with a man advantage, chose to drop deep and defend rather than continue pressing to increase the lead.

These opinions quickly attracted the attention of Thai media and fans. Many comments argued that the large scoreline did not fully reflect the team's professional quality, especially when the opponent had been reduced to 10 men for almost the entire second half. Meanwhile, some others considered the victory a good start, but coach Anthony Hudson will need to continue refining the playing style and improving physical fitness if he wants to lead the "War Elephants" deep into the tournament and compete for the championship.

Sarayut Chaikamdee was one of the standout forwards in Thai football from 2003 to 2008. He contributed to the Thai national team winning the SEA Games gold medal in 2003, the King's Cup, and scored 26 goals for the national team.