Thailand U23 issue fiery statement ahead of semi-final clash with Indonesia

Captain Seksan Ratree and Coach Thawatchai Eager for Semi-final Clash Against Hosts Indonesia at the 2025 AFF U23 Championship

Thailand U23 faced a tough challenge against Myanmar U23, resulting in a goalless draw in Group C of the 2025 AFF U23 Championship.

Despite the draw, coach Thawatchai’s squad advanced to the semi-finals as Group C leaders, setting up a showdown with tournament hosts Indonesia U23.

This marks the fifth consecutive time Thailand U23 have reached the semi-finals of the Southeast Asian youth football tournament. Of their four previous appearances, they made it to the final three times and won the title in 2005 on home soil.

Facing Indonesia U23 in the semi-finals will be no easy task.

Besides the advantage of playing at home, Indonesia U23 also boast naturalized striker Jens Raven – who has already scored six goals – and a squad widely regarded for its technical quality.

Still, despite Indonesia being considered the stronger side, Thailand U23 captain Seksan Ratree remains confident heading into the semi-final clash.

"I feel a bit disappointed that Thailand didn’t get the win," Seksan said after being named Man of the Match in the 0-0 draw against Myanmar U23.

"That said, at least we made it out of the group stage," he added. "Personally, I’m very excited for the upcoming match against Indonesia U23.

I’m thrilled that we’ll be playing in front of a large crowd. Every player wants to perform in front of passionate supporters.

From the match against Myanmar, we’ve identified areas we need to improve. The whole team is working together to make adjustments and aim for the best possible result."

Coach Thawatchai Confident Ahead of Semi-final vs. Indonesia U23. Photo: ChangSuek

Coach Thawatchai commented: “I am a bit concerned about the limited recovery time, but we’re fully prepared to take on Indonesia U23.”

He shared that the team had long anticipated a semi-final matchup with the hosts: “I’ve already talked to the players about playing against Indonesia, in front of a huge home crowd – and that’s a good thing.

Thailand U23 have made it this far, and we’re not afraid of any opponent. Playing the hosts is actually a great opportunity for us to evaluate ourselves. If we want to be champions, we must overcome this match.

I believe the players still have untapped potential. We can continue to improve. We’ve learned from our issues in the Myanmar game and will grow stronger.”

Thailand and Indonesia are the only two teams in the tournament yet to concede a goal. This makes their upcoming clash at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium all the more intriguing.

A large crowd is expected at kickoff (8:00 PM on July 25) – with 27,013 spectators having attended the goalless draw between Indonesia and Malaysia.

Earlier that day, at 4:00 PM on July 25, Vietnam U23 will continue their title defense with a semi-final match against the Philippines U23.

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