Before the confrontation at Rajamangala Stadium, coach Tan Cheng Hoe expressed his joy when returning to where he and Malaysia once won the right to enter the 2018 AFF Cup final after a 2-2 draw against Thailand in the second leg of the semi-finals.
I am very happy to be back here. 8 years have passed since 2018 and many things have changed. However, my atmosphere and emotions are still the same as before. The motivation and desire to contribute to the team has never changed," coach Tan Cheng Hoe shared.
However, the Malaysian coach admitted that his players have not reached their best physical condition due to a dense schedule.
Hopefully we will continue to get a positive result at Rajamangala stadium. I cannot deny that the players are still not in the best physical condition. We have not had full physical preparation due to the tight schedule," he said.
Malaysia is having a favorable start at ASEAN Cup 2026 with two consecutive victories against Myanmar (2-1) and Laos (4-0), thereby temporarily holding an advantage in the race to win a ticket to the semi-finals of Group B.
Assessing the opponent, coach Tan Cheng Hoe showed respect for Thailand but affirmed that Malaysia is not afraid of the home team.
We respect Thailand very much. They are one of the strongest teams in Southeast Asia, possessing many experienced and technically good players. However, we also came here with the determination to achieve a positive result.
The understanding, cohesion as well as the coordinating plays of the players are increasingly improved after each match. Thailand may have an advantage because they have played one less match, so they are more energetic. However, I always remind the players not to be afraid of any opponent," the 58-year-old strategist emphasized.
On the other side of the battle line, coach Anthony Hudson expects home advantage to add motivation for Thai players.
This is a very special stadium and fans will be present to cheer for the team. Everyone is very excited to wait for the match. I can affirm that fans always bring players an extra percentage of energy, faith and create motivation for the whole team to move forward. Their cheers are extremely important," he said.
The British coach also highly appreciated Malaysia after the two opening matches.
We want to continue to improve the playing style, while improving the physical foundation of the players. The whole team is very excited to play at home. When Thailand meets Malaysia at Rajamangala, we are always prepared for Malaysia to show the best form. They are a quality team, well led and have had a very impressive start at the tournament," coach Anthony Hudson said.
