Bangkok: The Thai national team is facing a striker shortage as they prepare for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers against Chinese Taipei, with Teerasak Poeiphimai as their only available forward.
According to Thai News Agency, the team’s head coach, Masatada Ishii, has had to make adjustments due to injuries. With Prames Ajwilai withdrawing earlier and Anan Yodsangwan stepping in temporarily, the team now relies solely on Teerasak Poeiphimai as their main striker. Key players, including team captain Chanathip Songkrasin, Benjamin Davis, and Charoensak Wongkorn, are already in place at the Novotel Future Park Rangsit Hotel to prepare for the upcoming matches on October 9 and 14.
Ishii has called up defender Wanchai Jarunongkran and midfielder Chanarong Promsrikaew to replace injured players Sasalak Haiprakhon and Supachai Jaided. The coach emphasized the need to adapt their game plan, given the limited options upfront. He also mentioned the decision to not include former captain Theerathon Bunmathan, as the focus is on bringing in new talent. With Chinese Taipei under new leadership, Ishii expects potential changes in their strategy and aims to secure three points in both matches.
Captain Chanathip expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, despite the absence of Ajwilai and Jaided. He acknowledged their talent but viewed it as an opportunity for Poeiphimai to demonstrate his abilities. Chanathip stressed the importance of the October 9 game, stating that a win is essential.
The Thai team is currently second in Group D and will face Chinese Taipei, who is fourth in the group. The first match will take place at Rajamangala National Stadium on October 9, followed by a second encounter at Taipei Municipal Stadium on October 14.