Thailand squad at strongest in many years: star footballer

"Since this is a home game, we want to earn three points against China," Bunmathan said on Monday. "The Thailand squad are at the strongest in many years, because there are players who are playing abroad like Supachok Sarachat, Ekanit Panya and Suphanat Mueanta. Not to mention Chanathip Songkrasin and Teerasil Dangda also had many years of playing abroad. For that reason, we will perform well against China."

Thailand are in group C with South Korea, China and Singapore. They will play the first game at home against China on Thursday then the second away in Singapore five days later.

Defender Kritsada Kaman is also confident that Thailand will beat China in the upcoming game. He said China have a strong and balanced squad, but the host will give their best because they want three points.

In the FIFA world rankings, China are 79th while Thailand are 33 places below. The two teams have faced off 26 times, with Thailand winning six, drawing two and losing 18 games. However, the stats are fairly balanced in the most recent seven games, with each team winning three and one draw between them.

Both Bunmathan and Kaman are key players in Thailand's defense. They can also play as midfielders thanks to their passing ability. In addition, the team also have Sarachat, who is on form this season with seven goals in 22 matches for J. League 1 team Consadole Sapporo.