Bangkok: Hudson fielded the Thai national team as if the score were still 0-0. Anthony Hudson, head coach of the Thai national team, confirmed that his team will play as if the score were still 0-0 in the second leg of the ASEAN Cup semi-final, despite Thailand having won the first leg 3-1.
According to Thai News Agency, the ASEAN Football Federation held a press conference to announce the readiness for the second leg of the semi-final of the "Hyundai Cup 2026" ASEAN Football Championship between Thailand (ranked 94th in the world, 7-time champions) and Singapore (ranked 148th in the world, 4-time champions). The match will be played today at 8:00 PM at Rajamangala National Stadium. Thailand won the first leg away 3-1.
Anthony Hudson, head coach of the Thai national team, said before the game that he was proud of the 3-1 score in the first match, but felt that there were areas where they could have done better. He added that they would focus on the second game, playing with the score still 0-0, as if it were a final, because he had to admit that Singapore is strong and has improved a lot. In the group stage, they handled Indonesia and Vietnam very well.
Hudson also responded to questions about criticism of the playing style, despite the team having won 8, drawn 2, and remained undefeated in 10 matches. He stated that, honestly, the criticism directed at him throughout his time with the Thai national team hasn't affected him much. However, he does feel disappointed and sad for the players, believing they deserve credit and positive attention because they have all worked very hard.
Thai national team striker Patrik Gustafsson said that the result from the first match has given him confidence for tomorrow's game. There are still 90 minutes left, and he must give his all because Singapore will likely be giving their all as well.
For today's game, the rules of the 2026 ASEAN Cup knockout round will not include the away goals rule. If the aggregate score over two legs is tied, there will be 30 minutes of extra time. If the score is still tied after extra time, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout.
The second leg of the semi-final match between Thailand and Singapore will take place today at 8:00 PM at Rajamangala National Stadium. Tickets are still available.