Starting lineups
Pre-match information
The match between U23 Thailand and U23 China is decisive for a ticket to the next round in Group D. After two rounds, U23 Thailand has only won 1 point but still has the right to decide for themselves. The mandatory condition for the Southeast Asian representative is to defeat U23 China if they do not want to stop early from the group stage.
In terms of the game, U23 Thailand did not play too inferior in the previous two matches. Before U23 Australia, they once took the lead, but the red card reversed the situation. In the match against U23 Iraq, when there were enough players, the "War Elephants" played evenly, even controlling the ball better to regain 1 point at the end of the match.
However, coach Thawatchai's team is facing difficulties in terms of force when they lack some key players compared to the squad that played at the SEA Games, especially in attack. The absence of striker Yotsakorn Burapha makes set pieces and finishing ability no longer strong points.
The challenge for U23 Thailand becomes even more difficult when the opponent is U23 China - the team leading the group with 4 points. The East Asian representative made a strong impression thanks to his disciplined play and solid defense system, having kept a clean sheet in 5 consecutive matches recently, including the confrontations with U23 Australia and U23 Iraq. Although the attack has not really exploded, the tightness and high organizational nature help U23 China control the game well and maintain an advantage before the final round.
In that context, the confrontation at Al-Shabab Club Stadium is predicted to be a real test for the ability to take advantage of opportunities and the bravery of U23 Thailand against a pragmatic and calculating U23 China.
