Thailand

Thailand U-22 coach: We won’t reach semi-finals if players continue to perform like this

Thailand U-22 coach Worrawoot Srimakha did not avoid mince words for the disappointing performance of his side in the 1-0 win over minnows Timor Leste on Thursday.

“I am not very pleased with the team’s performance at all,” said the former Thailand international to Bangkok Post.

“We were lucky to pick up three points from this game. Our tactics were not good at all today.

“Many players played like they had no desire to win. Don’t ask me because I don’t know the reason as well.”

Moreover, the 45-year-old coach demanded the greatest efforts from his players if they wanted to win the gold medals in SEA Games 29 men’s football.

“I don’t understand. During the training, they did so well but on the match day, it was completely the opposite,” he said.

“These players should go and watch how the past national teams played for the country when they were on the pitch.

“If they continue to perform like this, I have a feeling that we will not reach the semi-finals.”

Thailand have an additional day at their disposal to sort out the side’s shortcomings before facing Cambodia on Sunday at Selayang Stadium.