2024-12-25
Thailand is set to take on the Philippines in the semi-finals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024. After an impressive performance in the group stage, where Thailand went undefeated and secured first place in Group A, an exciting two-legged semi-final now awaits. Here's everything you need to know ahead of these highly anticipated matches.
Match schedule for the semi-finals
- Semifinal 1 - Philippines vs Thailand – December 27, 2024
- Time: 21:00 local time (Philippines) / 14: 00 GMT
- Watch the match live here
- Semifinal 2 - Thailand vs Philippines December 30 2024
- Time: 20:00 local time (Thailand) / 13: 00 GMT
- Watch the match live here
Thailand: Favorites with a strong history
Thailand is one of the most successful nations in ASEAN Championship history with a whopping seven championship titles, the most of any team. The team, known as "Changsuek" (War Elephants), has shown its strength both offensively and defensively throughout the tournament.
With stars like Suphanat Mueanta and Chanathip songkrasin in the lead, Thailand have dominated the game with speed and precision. The team's coach, Masatada Ishii, has emphasized the importance of team play and tactical preparation for the semi-finals.
Philippines: Underdogs with ambition
The Philippines have shown that they can surprise. Their road to the semi-finals has been marked by strong team spirit and solid defensive play. Although considered underdogs, the team has the potential to disrupt Thailand's dominance with their organized play.
Previous meetings between the teams
Thailand and the Philippines have met many times in the history of the ASEAN Championships. The statistics speak in Thailand's favor, with several wins against the Philippines in both group stage and knockout matches. The last time the teams met in a bigger context, Thailand won 3-1, but the Philippines have improved significantly since then.
Facts about the semi-finals
- Thailand in focus: Thailand have won their last four matches in the tournament with a combined goal difference of +14.
- Key players to watch: Suphanat Mueanta has been one of the tournament's top scorers.
- Philippines seek revenge: The team has never won against Thailand in a semi-final and has the chance to make history.
Why you can't miss these matches
The semi-finals promise to be intense, with two teams having everything to play for. With Thailand's attacking style of play and the Philippines' stubborn defense, we can expect two matches full of drama and passion.
Watch the matches live
Follow the semi-finals live on YouTube:
Thailand enter the semi-finals as favourites, but football is always unpredictable. Can the Philippines pull off a surprise, or will Thailand secure their place in the finals and take another step towards the championship title? Don't miss the drama when ASEAN's best teams meet!
The stars of Thailand's national team
Suphanat Mueanta
- Position: Striker
- Born: 2 August 2002
- Club: Buriram United (Thailand)
- Description: Suphanat is one of Thailand's most promising young players and has already cemented his place as a key player in the national team. He is known for his speed, technical skill and goal-scoring ability. Suphanat is also the youngest player to score in the AFC Champions League and a symbol of the future of Thai football.
Chanathip songkrasin
- Position: Midfielder
- Born: October 5, 1993
- Club: Kawasaki Frontale (Japan, J-League)
- Description: Chanathip, also called "Messi Jay", is one of Southeast Asia's most famous players. He is known for his exceptional ball control, creativity and ability to create scoring chances. He played a crucial role in Thailand's previous success in the ASEAN Championship and is a true icon of Thai football.
Masatada Ishii
- Position: Coach
- Born: 1967 (Japan)
- Previous experiences: Ishii has a solid coaching background, including from Kashima Antlers in the J-League, where he led the team to several successes, including a league title. Since taking over the Thailand national team, he has implemented a modern, attacking style of play that has boosted the team's performances on the international stage. His tactical acumen and ability to develop young talent have made him a valued leader.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: Simon Matzinger, Pixabay, original image