The Thai women’s national football team, known as ‘Chaba Kaew,’ has officially commenced their preparations for the upcoming Pink Ladies Cup, which will take place from February 19 to February 27, 2028, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Under the helm of newly appointed head coach Futoshi Ikeda, the team is engaging in their first training camp to cultivate the necessary skills and tactics for the tournament.
Following their report for training at the Sports Development Center at Bangkok Thonburi University on January 20, 2028, all 29 players participated under Ikeda’s guidance. He expressed his enthusiasm about working with the athletes, emphasizing the importance of communication both between players and coaching staff. “I feel glad to practice with the players for the first time, including several staff members. We need to look at practice to define the team style,” Ikeda stated.
Ikeda’s coaching philosophy stands out, aiming not only to develop the technical skills of the players but also to create a vibrant and energetic training atmosphere. “I want the players to be enthusiastic during training and give their best. We require athletes who can maintain good dynamics within the team and can perform multiple roles,” he added.
A notable change to the roster involves the inclusion of goalkeeper Panita Phromrat from BGC Bandit Asia to replace Yada Saengyong, who withdrew from the team. The practice session aimed to instill strong team cohesion and to familiarize the players with new tactics and playing systems.
Striker Thanikarn Daengda shared her optimism about adapting to Ikeda's strategies. “I believe Coach Ikeda’s style will suit the team, but we have to adjust our discipline both offensively and defensively. I think we can easily adapt and learn,” Thanikarn remarked.
Despite being away from the national team for some time, Thanikarn has remained active and feels confident returning to the fold. “Football is similar everywhere; I’m excited to be part of the national team again,” she noted.
Ikeda brings extensive experience from his time with the Japanese national women’s team, having led them to both World Cup and Olympic success. Players have high hopes he will uplift their game to the next level. “Having seen Japan’s organized discipline, which is significant both on and off the field, inspires us to prepare physically for every training session,” Thanikarn added.
The Pink Ladies Cup will feature six participating countries, including Russia (ranked 27), Uzbekistan (51), South Korea (20), Jordan (74), India (69), and Thailand (45). This tournament is part of their preparation for the Women’s AFC Asian Cup qualifiers taking place later this year between June 23 and July 5, 2026, along with aiming for success at the SEA Games set to take place in Thailand in December 2025.
The national team’s schedule during the Pink Ladies Cup is as follows: on February 20, 2028, Thailand (45) will face Russia (27) at 10:00 PM (Thailand time); on February 23, 2028, Thailand (45) will meet South Korea (20) at 6:00 PM; and on February 26, 2028, Thailand (45) will compete against Uzbekistan (51) at 6:00 PM. The venues and broadcast details will be announced later.
The Thai team, with aspirations of competing at the World Cup, is working diligently to apply their new tactics and strategies learned under Coach Ikeda during this training period. This commitment to excellence reflects their hopes not only for the immediate tournament but also for long-term achievements on the international stage.