Football

A rejuvenated Thailand mounted a strong comeback to reach the knockout stages of the AFC Asian Cup 2019. But now they will face one of the strongest teams in the tournament in China PR on Sunday. 

Must be a tough game tonight.

Things were going downhill for Milovan Rajevac’s Thailand after a 4-1 defeat to India in their tournament opener. And the former Ghana coach has fired from his role not long after. And stand-in head coach Sirisak Yodyardthai seems to have gotten the War Elephants ticking again.

They defeated Bahrain and drew with hosts United Arab Emirates to reach the Round of 16 where they will face Marcello Lippi’s China. China went down to Korea Republic 2-0 in their previous game, but their qualification was already secured before the final group game and Thailand will have their work cut out against one of the favorites for the tournament.

But first, let’s take a look at how the two teams could line up at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain.

THAILAND (5-4-1)

Goalkeeper: Siwarak Tedsungnoen
Defenders: Theerathon Bunmathan, Pansa Hemviboon, Chalermpong Kerdkaew, Mika Chunuonsee, Tristan Do
Midfielders: Chanathip Songkrasin, Thitipan Puangchan, Tanaboon Kesarat, Adisak Kraisorn
Forward: Teerasil Dangda

CHINA PR (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Yan Junling
Defenders: Liu Yang, Shi Ke, Feng Xiaoting, Zhang Linpeng
Midfielders: Zhao Xuri, Zheng Zhi, Hao Junmin
Forwards: Gao Lin, Yu Dabao, Zhang Chengdong