Football enthusiasts are gearing up for another exciting day of action in the Thai League as two key matchups are set for February 23, 2025. True Bangkok United will host Nong Bua Pitchaya FC, and Muangthong United will face off against Buriram United, with both matches broadcast on True Ball Thai channels.
True Bangkok United has had quite the rollercoaster season. After being eliminated from the AFC Champions League with a narrow aggregate score at the hands of Sydney FC, their spirits might need lifting as they prepare for the upcoming clash with Nong Bua Pitchaya FC. Their recent form has not been impressive either, with their last league game resulting in a disappointing 2-2 draw against Rayong FC. Observers note potential worries as the team awaits updates on Everton Gonçalves, who suffered injury during their previous game.
On the flip side, Nong Bua Pitchaya FC is deeply entrenched in the relegation battle, having not won any of their last six matches. Their most recent outing saw them share the spoils with Nakhon Ratchasima Mazda FC, but it's imperative they secure points to avoid dropping down a tier. Fortunately for Nong Bua, they come unscathed, with no injuries or suspensions impacting their lineup.
Expected lineups for the first match are:
- True Bangkok United (4-3-3): Patiwat Kamhai; Nitiwong Seelanan, Manuel Tom Biah, Suphan Thongsang, Pratama Arhan; Thitiphan Puangchan, Weerapat Phompan, Pokkla Anan; Mahmoud Ed, Muhseen Al Kassani, Richa Hiro Sifkovic.
- Nong Bua Pitchaya FC (4-3-3): Suchin Yen-arom; Anawin Chujean, Wuttichai Maram, Jorge Philippe, Simon Lindqvist; Cristian Rontini, Naraset Luktong, Park Woo Young; Paulo Conrado, Marcus Haber, Wira Yut Srisuwan.
Later, at 19:00 on the same day, football fans can tune in to see Muangthong United take on Buriram United. Muangthong, hope to rebound after their AFCCL elimination at the hands of Lion City Sailors, and the timing couldn’t be worse. They managed to secure a hard-fought victory over Singh Chiangrai United, which helps them keep their hopes alive for the top three spots. The team currently leaves only Jacob Malah out due to injury, so they expect full strength otherwise.
Buriram United, currently leading the standings, is no stranger to high-pressure games as they are also riding high after advancing to the knockout stage of the AFC Champions League. They encountered some turbulence most recently, though, suffering a 0-1 defeat to Port FC, and will need to tighten their game to maintain their position.
The anticipated lineups for this evening's gripping clash are as follows:
- Muangthong United (4-2-3-1): Kittipong Phutthawong; Tristan Do, Abbos Otaconov, Ali Chissoko, John Patrick Strauss; Picha Utra, Kasidech Vetyawong; Melvin Lorenzen, Kanna Kamyok, Pramey Aijwal; Emil Robak.
- Buriram United (3-5-2): Neil Etheridge; Kim Min-hyuk, Kennett Dugal, Dion Kools; Narubodin Weerawattanodum, Goran Kausic, Theerathon Bunmathan, Lukas Krispim, Sasalak Haimprakorn; Guilherme Bisoli, Suphanat Mueangtam.
Historically, both matches have seen intense rivalries with outcomes swinging at times drastically based on the home advantage. Last season’s encounters left fans with memorable and surprising results; Muangthong managed to edge out Buriram during the Revo Cup with an impressive 2-0, but they could also succumb, as evidenced by their 1-3 defeat faced earlier this season.
What lies at stake for both fixtures is substantial. True Bangkok United desperately requires points to challenge for the championship and avoid any late-season dramatic drops, whereas Nong Bua Pitchaya FC’s mission is clear—win to escape relegation troubles. Similar pressures operate for Muangthong and Buriram; each side aspires to solidify its ranking and target life at the top of the league.
It will undoubtedly be an action-packed day as fans across Thailand tune in and root for their teams. Don’t miss any moments of this vibrant spectacle!