Bangkok: Bangkokthonburi University emerged victorious in the ‘Chang U-Champion Cup Year 3’, a national university football competition organized by Chang Natural Mineral Water. This victory grants them the coveted opportunity to travel to England.
According to Thai News Agency, the competition spanned four months, featuring over 50 universities from across the nation. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Mr. Jessadakorn Kochs, Marketing Director of Chang Natural Mineral Water, Mr. Patrick Horattanachai, Director of Corporate Affairs, Thailand, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, and Mr. Surapol Utintu, Executive of Thai Beverage Public Company Limited. The day was further enlivened with the presence of Thai football legends, “Leesaw Theerathon Winothai” and “Tong Kawin Thamsatchanan”, who inspired the teams and presented the trophies.
During the championship match’s half-time break, a penalty shootout was held between the ‘Chang Friends’ team and a ‘media team’, featuring notable players like ‘Leesaw Theerathon’ and ‘Tong Kawin’ as the goalkeeper. The shootout aimed to entertain fans from both universities.
The Chang U-Champion Cup Year 3, recognized as a significant tournament, continues to grow in popularity. More than 50 university teams participated, vying for the exclusive Dream Prize of a trip to England. The winning team and the SPORTSMANSHIP award recipient will visit England in September 2025 to experience world-class football, serving as an inspiration and a stepping stone for young footballers to the professional level. This initiative reflects Chang’s long-standing commitment to supporting Thai football.
Mr. Jessadakorn Kochs emphasized the growth in the number of participating teams, from 24 to 52, and the increasing enthusiasm among students. He highlighted Chang’s 30-year dedication to Thai football and the aim to make the competition more popular annually. The Dream Prize, a unique opportunity to experience football in England, is anticipated to further enhance Thai football development.
Mr. Patrick Horattanachai noted that this year’s competition was elevated to a national level, incorporating international systems akin to the World Cup. The Football Association of Thailand provided referees for the matches, ensuring fair play. The tournament is recognized as a platform for young talents to progress to the professional scene.
Bangkokthonburi University triumphed over the National Sports University team in a penalty shootout, concluding the match with a total score of 6-5. This victory in the ‘Chang U-Champion Cup Year 3’ secures their trip to England, valued at over 15 million baht. Nitithorn Sriprathom from the National Sports University received the SPORTSMANSHIP award and will join the champion team in England.
Additionally, Achiravat Saimee from the National Sports University was named the MVP, while Yotsakorn Burapa from Rattana Bundit University secured the Top Scorer award.