The Thai national under-17 football team is gearing up for the upcoming 2025 AFC U-17 Asian Cup, set to take place in Saudi Arabia from April 3 to April 20, 2025. With several key players named to the squad, the team aims to build upon its previous experiences and make a significant impact on the continental stage.
Manager Anuruth Nakhasai and head coach Jadet Meelarp have been diligently preparing the team for the tournament. The squad, which includes 30 players, has been training continuously to fine-tune their skills and strategies. This is particularly important as they find themselves placed in Group A, alongside host nation Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and China.
Highlighting the team’s selection, the list of players has raised some eyebrows, particularly with the notable absence of Kai Law, the Thai-English defender from Nottingham Forest. Instead, goalkeeper Silva Mexes Tyler from Manchester United is among those who successfully made the final roster. The selected players reflect the immense talent available within the Thai youth football system, showcasing potential future stars of the game.
The selection list for the squad includes goalkeepers like Supakorn Phunphol from Nongbua Pitchaya FC and Pitakorn Plangthaisong from Assumption College Thonburi, alongside defenders such as Supawit Phromsuk and Purinthat Phoolkamlang from Buriram United. Midfielders include Danupol Bubpa and Sornkris Kaewsri, both from Assumption College Thonburi, solidifying their influence on the field.
For the forward positions, the team's fortunes lie with promising talents such as Panurawit Jaiyakom from Buriram United and Premeth Laongdee from Bangkok Christian College. Each of these players brings unique skills and strengths to the team, aiming to adapt and overcome their opponents.
Players have been instructed to report to Dynamic Football Camp, Samut Prakan, on March 4, 2025, with preparations scheduled to continue until March 14. During this time, they will engage in closed-door practice matches as they narrow down their roster from 30 to 25 players. This rigorous training regimen is pivotal as they hope to emerge with the strongest possible team to represent Thailand.
The tournament not only serves as a competition among the continent's best youth talent but also acts as a qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Only eight teams from Asia are expected to qualify for this prestigious event, eleving the stakes for the Thai squad.
Reflecting on their preparatory efforts, both Anuruth Nakhasai and Jadet Meelarp are well aware of the challenges they face. Their comprehensive training strategy emphasizes physical conditioning, tactical awareness, and team coordination. They fully intend to utilize every opportunity for invaluable on-pitch experience leading up to the tournament.
Meanwhile, the excitement surrounding the Thai football scene continues to flourish, highlighted by public interest and local support for the national teams at all levels. Thai football's governing body remains committed to youth development, as exemplified by the youth leagues initiated earlier. Future leagues will need adequate funding and support to maintain momentum, as applauded by Madam Pang, the federation president, who spoke recently about the necessity of transparency and dedication.
Madam Pang, during her meeting with Prime Minister Phaethongthar Shinawatra, expressed gratitude for past support and hopes for continued funding for the Thailand Youth League. The discussions focused on the significance of football as not just sport but as cultural unity and economic driver for the nation.
"Football is more than just entertainment; it brings happiness and unity among our people when the national team plays," Madam Pang stated, underlining its impact on tourism and the economy.
While the team prepares for its Asian Cup challenge, the Thai League showcases local talents as exemplified by recent matches. Just last week, the Thail League 3 featured riveting gameplay, highlighted by referee Jakkapong Pongprapad's swift on-field movements during the encounter between Phitsanulok Unity and Chatthakarn City, drawing attention for his impressive endurance.
On March 2, 2025, Phitsanulok Unity faced Chatthakarn City, showcasing the fierce competition across all levels of Thai football. Despite the physical toll on players, Jakkapong's energy and timely interventions kept the match engaging, even prompting commentary about his impressive performance on the field.
Phitsanulok Unity fell to defeat, losing 1-3, which places them at the bottom of the league table with only 13 points from 16 matches, whereas Chatthakarn City climbed to eighth place with 18 points.
The expansive scope of football within Thailand serves as both inspiration and motivation for those partaking and specting. The national U17 team's pursuit of excellence on the Asian stage symbolizes hope and ambition for young Thai players—exemplifying the continuity of talent development within football.
With the 2025 AFC U-17 Asian Cup on the horizon, the players look to build on their growth, develop their skills, and continue the national pride encapsulated by their predecessors. Thailand's vibrancy and commitment to the game amplify their collective spirit, making every match both important and memorable.