'I apologize to the Thai people, it's too much pressure and anxiety'

Thailand lost to Philippines

Playing away at the Philippines, the Thai team faced many difficulties in the first half. The "War Elephants" only had more than 40% possession - their lowest rate since the beginning of the AFF Cup 2024. Even in the 21st minute, star Sandro Reyes shone with a beautiful move, piercing the Thai net. It was not until the last minute of the first half that Thailand found a goal to equalize the score 1-1 after right-back Suphanan Bureerat entered the penalty area and unexpectedly tapped the ball. In the second half, Thailand made many adjustments, playing better on the offensive front. The away team shot 10 more times (double the first half) but were unable to penetrate the Philippine net. Not only that, in the 90+5 minute, center-back Kike Linares tapped the ball from close range, helping the Philippines win the match 2-1.

Losing 1-2 in the Philippines, the Thai team's unbeaten streak at the AFF Cup 2024 ended. At the same time, this was also the first loss of the "War Elephants" to the Philippines in 52 years. Coach Masatada Ishii expressed his disappointment: "I have to apologize to the Thai people for the result of this match. I did not know about the above record. Football in Southeast Asia is difficult and surprises can happen.

The Thai team needs to carefully review and analyze this loss and make improvements to improve the return match at home. Every player on the field carries a great mission for the country and must always fulfill their duties well. I think everyone is ready to give their all in the remaining match between the two teams."

Coach Masatada Ishii expressed disappointment when Thailand lost on the Philippines field.

When asked about the two goals conceded against the Philippines, the Japanese coach shared: “Thailand will study very carefully how we conceded. We must definitely overcome them and never allow ourselves to concede similar goals. Thailand lost the first goal in the first half but came back at the right time. In the second half, the players played well, had many scoring opportunities but unexpectedly lost from a free kick. Perhaps the loss will greatly affect the players' mentality, everyone is worried.”

Meanwhile, Suphanan Bureerat - the player who scored the only goal for the Thai team, assessed that losing in the Philippines was not a disaster. He affirmed that Thailand will do their best in the second leg to win and advance to the final.

"Today's away match was really difficult. Thailand did not do well and faced a lot of pressure. However, we still have one match at home. Thailand will not give up but will come back strongly. I believe that everyone will fight their best for the final goal," Suphanan Bureerat expressed.

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Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hlv-ishii-toi-xin-loi-nguoi-dan-thai-lan-that-qua-ap-luc-va-lo-lang-185241227234600325.htm