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Thailand drew 2-2 against Saudi Arabia, defeated Qatar 1-0, lost 0-1 to Kuwait and ranked fourth at the friendly tournament 2023 Doha Cup. The team’s performance was highly appreciated with a squad of young and talented players like striker Channarong Promsrikaew, Teerasak Poeiphimai and midfielder Jonathan Khemdee.
Vietnam finished last out of 10 teams at the tournament, losing 0-3 to Iraq, 0-4 to the UAE and 4-5 in penalty shootout to Kyrgyzstan after a goalless 90 minutes.
"Thailand have no rivals in SEA Games 32," Srimaka said. "I think this team are at the Asian level and can play many teams."
The 51-year-old former player said that Thailand should not miss this opportunity to claim the SEA Games gold medal after letting Vietnam win it for the past two consecutive seasons.
Srimaka helped Thailand win their last SEA Games gold medal in 2017. In that tournament, they defeated Vietnam 3-0, eliminating the team from the group stage.
He believes that Thailand U23 will continue to develop under the guidance of the current coach Issara Sritaro.
SEA Games 32 men's football will take place beginning April 29. The draw for the group will be held on April 5. Hosts Cambodia will only allow players born in 2001 or later to compete and scrapped the addition of three overage players like in previous two events.
