Prime Bangkok FC winger Chawanwit Sealao stressed that Thailand would not underestimate either of their group stage rivals, Timor Leste and Singapore, to ensure an untroubled start to its quest to regain the men’s football gold medal, regarded as the most coveted prize in the upcoming 33rd SEA Games.
The Young War Elephants may hold a record 16 titles in the men’s football competition of the region’s biennial multi-sport event, but their last triumph came eight years ago in Malaysia.
The national under-23 side will be the first home delegation in action before the official start of the Thai-hosted Games, which will be held between December 9 and 20 in Bangkok and Chon Buri. They will kick off their Group A campaign against Timor Leste on Wednesday at Rajamangala National Stadium.
Despite aiming to recapture the title the whole country craves, Chawanwit emphasised that the team’s focus is completely on their first assignments, given that only the group winners are guaranteed automatic qualification for the semifinals.
“We’ve trained well so far and feel more ready. The coach (Thawatchai Dumrong-ongtrakul) has put emphasis on our build-up play and finishing.
“In the two group stage games against Timor Leste and Singapore, we’ll definitely not underestimate them and will give our all in each match. Our sole target is the gold medal. Playing at home this time, I would like to invite fans to come and support us in great numbers. We’ll do our best,” said Chawanwit.
After the Timor Leste fixture, the Young War Elephants will have a little over a week to prepare for their final group match against Singapore on December 11 at the same venue.
In the 33rd SEA Games men’s football competition, only the winners from each of the three groups will automatically qualify for the semifinals, scheduled for December 15. The remaining spot in the last four is reserved for the best second-placed side.
The final and third-place playoff matches will take place on December 18.
