Southeast Asia Thailand

Chanathip Came in Clutch as Thailand End King’s Cup Drought

Thailand national team head coach Masatada Ishii highlighted two key factors behind the Changsuek‘s victory in the 2024 King’s Cup: the passionate crowd support in Songkhla and the return of captain Chanathip Songkrasin. Thailand claimed a shock 2-1 win over higher-ranked Syria in the final, played at a packed Tinsulanonda Stadium, marking their first King’s Cup triumph in seven years and their first title outside Bangkok in eight editions.

BG Pathum United ace Chanathip, who returned to the national team after a hiatus, scored a last-minute goal to seal Thailand’s 16th King’s Cup title. The victory also came with a bonus of five million baht, awarded by Football Association of Thailand (FAT) president Nualphan Lamsam.

Ishii, in his post-match conference, expressed relief at delivering on his promise to bring the King’s Cup back to Thailand and praised the fans for their unwavering support. He also emphasized the positive influence of Chanathip’s leadership and inspiration.

The match saw several key moments, including Belgium-based striker Suphanat Mueanta’s early volley, which was saved by Syrian goalkeeper Esteban Glellel, and Ekanit Panya’s effort that hit the post before redeeming himself with a goal just before halftime. Syria equalized in the second half after a defensive error by Sasalak Haiprakhon allowed Ezequiel Ham to score, but Chanathip’s decisive strike in added time secured Thailand’s victory.

Chanathip, who was also named Man of the Match, credited the fans and the team’s fighting spirit for their success, emphasizing the resilience shown by the young squad throughout the tournament.

In the third-place playoff, the Philippines defeated Tajikistan 3-0 with goals from Gerrit Holtmann, Jefferson Tabinas, and Zico Bailey.