Obb Deewajin
Football Tribe Thailand
There is no Friday night game on Thai League (T1) matchday 10, but Saturday’s early kickoff is a must watch as Buriram United welcome Nakhonratchasima FC. The ‘Thunder Castle’ were extremely lucky to beat Ratchaburi FC two weeks ago, and have both beaten Rayong and lost to Urawa in the interim.
Meetings between Buriram United and the Swatcat are renowned for their high attendance and vibrant atmosphere, and currently, the two sides couldn’t have met at a better time. The reigning champions have had to grind out results in recent weeks as Božidar Bandović’s is still in the process of trying to gel the players together – in particularly in offensive phases.
Milos Joksic’s men, on the other hand, have been in decent form – their last two league wins were a 4-0 and 3-1 demolition of Chonburi FC and Muangthong United respectively. However, in between those two victories, the side suffered a surprise loss away to Suphanburi FC in the mix.
The Chang Arena has been a fortress, but the Swatcat’s solid defense is capable of handling the pressure.
The visitors also have a perfect group of players to carry out a dangerous counter-attacking approach. Attacker Bernard Henry got himself on the scoresheet in 4 straight games across all competitions and is someone to look out for.
Sunday presents Bangkok United with a golden opportunity to follow up on last week’s fantastic 6-1 win over Prachuap as they travel to Chiangmai FC. Bangkok head coach Mano Pölking has stressed the importance of concentration to keep the side’s good run going.
As for Chiangmai FC, they’ve conceded 11 goals in their last 2 T1 games and could seriously face a downward spiral if they failed to turn up against Bangkok United.
Elsewhere, league leaders Port FC visit Chainat FC with a chance to maintain their lead at the top while looking to collect their sixth straight wins in all competitions. Winger Bodin Phala has been in scintillating form recently, netting four goals from his last three T1 outings. Right-back Nitipong Selanon, another one in red hot form, returns after his side’s FA Cup tie and will be expected to start.
However, The Hornbills are no pushovers – their last two home games saw them win over other big visitors from the capital, Muangthong United and Bangkok United. Dennis Amato’s heavy pressing approach has generally been a massive success so far and should produce an entertaining encounter against Jadet Meelarp’s fast, direct, attacking brand of football. This is a huge test, even for someone of Jadet’s experience, but one Port FC must overcome if they wish to be considered as a true title challenger.