Thai experts acknowledge that the young star from the third-tier team of "War Elephants" needs improvement after victory over Vietnam U23.

Thai football experts state that Thai U23 player Chawanwit Saelao requires further improvement after the 1-0 victory over Vietnam U23.

On March 28 afternoon, Thai U23 defeated Vietnam U23 1-0 in the CFA Team China 2026 international friendly tournament in Xi'an (China), thanks to the sole goal by Thanakrit Chotmuangpak.

Thai coach Akkathaporn Chalitaborn noted that Thai U23 player Chawanwit Saelao had many scoring opportunities but failed to convert them. Previously, this young player scored in the 2-2 draw with China U23 at CFA Team China 2026.

During the live stream of the match on Thairath Sport, Coach Akkathaporn Chalitaborn commented: "From a coach's perspective, there are two approaches. Some coaches might think it's not working and substitute Chawalwit Saelao. Another way is to let him play the full 90 minutes to try to score and regain confidence. I think that could also be done, since he scored in the previous match. But today, many opportunities were not utilized."

Thai commentator Kritsana Phayung joked by comparing Chawalwit to Liverpool player Cody Gakpo: "This is Arne Slot's style, constantly giving Cody Gakpo chances, even if he doesn't score, he keeps playing (laughs)."

Later, Kritsana Phayung added: "Chawalwit Saelao excels in one-on-one situations, playing since he was 17-18 at Prime United. I assess that he definitely has talent, having progressed through youth teams to U23. But currently, decision-making is problematic, lacking efficiency in finishing."

"Meanwhile, Thanakrit Chotmuangpak is less prominent, but with just one opportunity, he scores immediately. Therefore, Chawalwit needs to improve. We are not criticizing, but want him to refine his skills to become a pillar of the Thai national team in the future. Because many are skilled when young, but later remain merely young talents," commentator Kritsana Phayung further stated.

Winger Chawanwit Saelao (born 2004) currently plays for Prime Bangkok Club in Thai League 3 (Thailand's third division)

In the 2023/24 season, Chawanwit scored a total of 24 goals in Thai League 3, along with 12 assists. Additionally, he won 8 "Player of the Match" awards.

Meanwhile, Thanakrit Chotmuangpak (born September 1, 2006) plays as an attacking midfielder and winger for Buriram United Club. He developed from the club's own academy and was promoted to the first team in the 2023/24 season. Previously, in 2023, Thanakrit Chotmuangpak trained with Leicester City in England for three months.

Thanakrit made his professional debut in September 2023 and quickly impressed with 2 assists in his first starting match in Thai League 1. Thanakrit Chotmuangpak also participated in AFC Champions League and was once voted the best player of a round in the Thai national championship.

At the national team level, he has represented Thai youth teams from U17, U20 to U23. With Buriram United, he has won two consecutive Thai League 1 championships.