2016 Suzuki Cup
preview: Looking at Thailand War Elephants
by rick olivares
Without
a doubt, defending champions, Thailand, are still the favorites to annex a
second consecutive Suzuki Cup championship. The youthful but solid roster is
intact, and they’ve had good form of late.
Zico Senamuang |
Thailand
has always fielded talented teams and one can never take them for granted. But
this current squad that is coached by Kiatsuk “Zico” Senamuang is good and will
continue to be so for the next few years. The only key player who is getting in
on the years is defender Prathum Chuthong who will most likely make his Suzuki
Cup swan song with this tournament.
What’s
under the resume of this team? A Southeast Asian Games gold medal in 2013 and
the Suzuki Cup a year later. Last June, they defeated Jordan, 2-0, to pocket
the King’s Cup. Furthermore, Zico’s wards have also qualified for the 2019 AFC
Asian Cup and the final round of the 2018 World Cup Russia Asian Qualifiers.
You think they are satisfied? No. The results of the past few months have kept
Thailand grounded and humble.
Most
recently, the War Elephants went up against elite competition and went 0-2-4.
But there’s a lot to learn and gain when you play against Iraq, Saudi Arabia,
Japan, United Arab Emirates, and Australia. Especially that 2-2 draw against
the Socceroos last November 15 in Bangkok. That’s a good way to head into the
2016 edition of the Suzuki Cup.
Zico
employs a 3-5-2 formation where they like to send up numbers when they attack. They
play the middle then find their speedy wingers when space opens up. It helps
they have smooth finishers in strikers Teerasil Dangda and Siroch Chatthong.
Defensively,
because of their commitment to fitness and conditioning, they press and tackle
a lot. They also employ three defensive midfielders who like to take their
foes’ rhythm away.
Basically,
Thailand’s work ethic has made it possible for them to win. If anyone wants
their crown, they’ll have to outwork them for it.
The
Philippines and Thailand clash on November 25 at 8pm at the Philippine Arena.
Projected Thailand Starting XI
Kawin Thamsatchanan (GK)
Adison Promak
Tanaboon Kesarat Prathum Chuthong
Tristan Do Saracch
Yooyen Chanathip Songkrasin Pokklaw Anan Therathon Bunmathan
Teerasil Dangda
Siroch Chatthong
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