Bangkok: “War Elephants” left-back Irfan Dolah expressed no concern regarding the condition of the artificial turf ahead of the Thai national team’s match against Turkmenistan tonight in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

According to Thai News Agency, the Asian Cup 2027 Qualifying Round, Group D, Match 2 sees Thailand, ranked 99th in the world and holding 3 points, face off against Turkmenistan, ranked 142nd with an equal number of points. The match is scheduled for tonight, June 10, at 10:00 p.m. Masatada Ishii, Head Coach of the Thailand National Team, and left-back Irfan Dolah have both affirmed the team’s readiness ahead of the match.

Ishii stated that the team is well-prepared to play on the grass field and has already selected the top players for the game. Regarding their opponent, Turkmenistan, which has recently undergone a coaching change, Ishii feels that not much will change, but remains confident in the Thai team’s ability to secure points. Irfan Dolah also shared that the team is ready and unfazed by the weather and the artificial grass field conditions they will encounter tonight.

For this crucial game, Ishii plans to field his main lineup with the objective of securing 3 points using a 4-2-3-1 formation: goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai, right back Suphanan Burirat, left back Irfan Dolah, with center pair Elias Dolah and Shinnapat Leeaoh. Midfielders Peeradon Chamratsamee and Worachit Kanitsribumphen will manage the midfield play.

Leading the forward line, team captain “Jay” Chanathip Songkrasin will be supported by Jaroensak Wongkorn and Ekanit Panya, with Supachai Jaided positioned as the center forward.

Historically, in their last two encounters, the Thai team has had the upper hand against Turkmenistan, winning one match and drawing another. Their most recent encounter was on May 27, 2022, in Sisaket Province, where the Thai team emerged victorious with a 1-0 win in a friendly match.