After two matches in the group stage, U23 Thailand has only got 1 point, but the door to the next round has not closed. The mandatory condition for the Southeast Asian representative is to defeat U23 China in the final match.
In general, coach Thawatchai's team's performance was not too bad. Against U23 Australia, U23 Thailand once took the lead, but defender Phon-Ek Jensen's red card caused the game to reverse and the team from the Land of the Rising Sun paid the price.
In the match against U23 Iraq, when they had enough troops, U23 Thailand played evenly, even overwhelming the game to regain 1 important point at the end of the match.
However, compared to the force that fought at SEA Games 33, U23 Thailand currently lacks some important factors, leading to a shortage of momentum in attack.
The fact that striker Yotsakorn Burapha was not present made set pieces in front of the penalty area no longer a formidable strength. The finishing ability is also a big problem when the strikers continuously waste opportunities.
The goal-scoring problem becomes more difficult when they have to face U23 China. This team is showing a very different face at the tournament with a proactive and highly disciplined playing style. Notably, U23 China has a solid defense, having kept a clean sheet in 5 consecutive matches, including 2 encounters with U23 Australia and U23 Iraq.
China's U23 defense system operates tightly, defenders cover each other effectively, while the midfield continuously puts pressure from afar.
The match between U23 Thailand and U23 China takes place at 6:30 PM today (January 14) and is broadcast live on TV360.
Live viewing link
//tv360.vn/tv/tv360-11?ch=9958&ev=76790&es=1&col=banner§=BANNER&page=home
