Bangkok: The Thai national under-23 football team has successfully advanced to the final round of the 2026 Asian Cup after a thrilling victory against Malaysia. The team narrowly secured a 2-1 win, thanks to two crucial goals from Kokana Khamyok, with the decisive goal scored in the 90+2 minute.

According to Thai News Agency, the Thai team played three matches, accumulating seven points, tying with Lebanon who defeated Mongolia 3-0. However, Thailand’s superior goal difference granted them the opportunity to move forward to the AFC U23 Championship in Saudi Arabia in January 2026. In recognition of their achievement, “Madam Pang” Nualphan Lamsam, President of the Football Association of Thailand, awarded the team a bonus of 1 million baht.

The team’s advancement has brought relief to fans who were disappointed by recent setbacks, including the men’s national team missing the King’s Cup and the risk of being eliminated from the Asian Cup, alongside the women’s team failing to qualify for the 2027 World Cup.

Other nations joining Thailand in the final round of the under-23 Asian Cup include Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Japan, Vietnam, Australia, Kyrgyzstan, Iraq, Qatar, Iran, South Korea, Syria, China, Uzbekistan, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates.

“Coach Wang,” Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, who recently took over the coaching role from Japanese coach Takayuki Nishigaya, expressed gratitude for the support from the association’s president and acknowledged the challenges faced, including two rainy matches. He noted the improvement in player readiness between the first and second camps, which aided in tactical execution. Coach Wang also revealed plans to prepare the team for the upcoming SEA Games.