Swede test awaits Thailand

Swede test awaits Thailand

Chaba Kaew enter the field against world No.9 team on a wing and a prayer

Thailand players react following their 13-0 loss to the US in their Women’s World Cup Group F match in Reims on Tuesday. (Photo by Francois Mori)
Thailand players react following their 13-0 loss to the US in their Women’s World Cup Group F match in Reims on Tuesday. (Photo by Francois Mori)

Thailand have recovered from their humiliating defeat in their opening game against the United States and are ready to take on Sweden at the 2019 Women's World Cup today.

The match in Nice kicks off at 8pm (Thai time) while the US take on Chile in the other Group F game at 2am (tomorrow morning).

All eyes will be on world No.34 Thailand after they suffered a record 13-0 loss to the top-ranked and defending champions Americans in their first game on Tuesday.

The Chaba Kaew will be trying to get a result -- or more realistically avoid another massive defeat -- against world No.9 Sweden who are six-goal odds-on favourites in the eyes of the bookies.

"Sweden are a world-class team. They are strong and I believe they will attack us with the high ball," said Thailand coach Nuengruethai Sathongwien.

"I have told my players to play with confidence and focus. I'd like to see them play with hopes."

She said the players felt better now after receiving encouraging messages from a large number of fans.

Nuengruethai said she would pick the players who are ready physically and mentally.

"Some players looked nervous in the first match and they have learned a lot,'' she said.

"Against Sweden, we need experienced players. Some are not fully fit but we may have to use them."

Goalkeeper Sukanya Chor Charoenying, who started against the US, is likely to be axed to open way for Waraporn Boonsing, who is still nursing a slight injury.

Waraporn was one of Thailand's best players at the 2015 World Cup.

"We have to check Waraporn's fitness," Nuengruethai said.

Versatile Pitsamai Sornsai is also likely to start against Sweden, Nuengruethai said.

Thailand manager Nualphan Lamsam said: "It will be an important game. Our players are ready to fight for the country. We need moral support from all Thais."

Thai star Duangnapa Sritala said: "We have fully recovered from the defeat against the US and ready for the next game. We have reviewed all mistakes that we made in the first game. So I am confident that our performance will be better in the game against Sweden."

Sweden, who defeated Chile 2-0 in their opening game, are expected to join the US in the second round.

On paper, Thailand can still qualify for the last-16 round.

The top two teams of six groups and four best third-place sides advance to the knockout stages.

It is Thailand's second appearance at the Women's World Cup.

At Canada 2015, Thailand suffered two 4-0 defeats against Germany and Norway but beat Ivory Coast 3-2.

Sweden have recorded seven wins, two draws and two defeats in 11 matches against Asian Football Confederation representatives at the Women's World Cup.

However, the Scandinavians failed to win the last two, losing 3-1 to Japan in the 2011 semi-finals and drawing 1-1 with Australia four years ago.

Japan went on to win the title in 2011.

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