Thai coach confident ahead of match against Vietnam U20

Thailand being the host of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup 2026, head coach Nuengrutai Srathongvian showed utmost confidence.

On March 31, 2026, at 11:45 AM, in the press conference room at Thammasat Stadium, the Asian Football Confederation held a press conference ahead of the AFC Asian Cup U20 Women's 2026, scheduled from April 1–18, 2026.

The press conference was attended by Ms. Nuengrutai Srathongvian, head coach of the Thailand U20 women's team, along with representatives from the other three teams in the same group: China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh.

Speaking at the press conference, the head coach of the host Thai team stated: "Hello, as the host country, we welcome all teams participating in the tournament in Thailand.

I am personally very happy to be part of this edition. We have prepared thoroughly, and with the advantage of playing at home, I believe the players will strive to perform their best."

She further shared: "After our previous failure to qualify for the finals, since the time I took charge of the team, we have been preparing diligently throughout the year.

The team has selected the best players, including domestic and mixed-heritage players, aiming for this tournament.

As mentioned, we have had considerable preparation time from last year to this year. The federation has facilitated training and participation in various competitions, including the Southeast Asian championship and friendly tournaments in Australia and Turkey.

This has helped us formulate a detailed plan. Many players also compete in the Thai Women's League, gaining continuous match experience. I believe this tournament will contribute to the development of Thai women's football."

Regarding the Vietnam U20 women's team, head coach Okiyama Masahiko affirmed the determination to compete and strive for good results

"We gathered in Hanoi after the Lunar New Year. Subsequently, the team had a training camp in China and played friendly matches with clubs there for practice. Upon returning to Vietnam, we also played some friendlies before coming to Thailand."

Evaluating the opponents in the group stage, Coach Okiyama Masahiko noted that all teams are very strong, possess high technical levels, and will pose many challenges for Vietnam U20 women, but: "We will try to prepare well and maintain a good spirit to face the challenges. The entire team and coaching staff have prepared meticulously. Hopefully tomorrow will yield positive results.

Beyond achievements, competing in the finals with strong Asian teams is a good opportunity for players to accumulate experience, aiming for the national team in the near future." According to the schedule, the Vietnam U20 women's team will begin their opening match against China U20 women at 16:00 on April 1 at Nonthaburi Stadium, Bangkok (Thailand).