During FIFA Days in October 2023, Thailand “played big” when traveling to Europe to play friendly matches with Georgia and Estonia. In the first match, Thailand was defeated 0-8 by Georgia when coach Mano Polking used many unfamiliar players.
In the match against Estonia, Thailand played better and made a strong impression. Although Thailand is 3 places above Estonia in the FIFA rankings, they are still rated by experts as being much lower than their opponents due to the difference in physique and strength. However, the “War Elephants” even overwhelmed Estonia and achieved a well-deserved 1-1 draw.
Thailand just had an impressive draw against Estonia.
The draw with Estonia helped Thailand successfully conclude their European tour. The bitter defeat against Georgia was a great lesson for the team to understand where they are. Perhaps that is why the Football Association of Thailand has sought more realistic opponents to prepare for the 2024 Asian Cup finals.
Specifically, Thailand confirmed that they will play a friendly match with Japan on New Year's Day 2024. Japan is currently the number 1 team in Asia, ranked 19th on the FIFA rankings. They have a fast, short, technical style of play and are considered the model that Thailand aims for.
Sharing this information, Coach Mano Polking excitedly said: “I would like to thank the Football Association of Thailand for arranging this match. Japan is the top team in Asia and has reached world class. Competing with them is a great opportunity for Thailand to improve itself.”
Before the match with Japan, Thailand will have two important matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers next November, against China and Singapore respectively.
(Source: Tien Phong)
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