Thailand unexpectedly fields star from Japan to face Vietnam U23.

Thailand calls up the young talent Theerapat Pruethong, currently playing in Japan, to the U23 team, in preparation for the CFA Team China 2026 international competition.

Thailand recruits forward Theerapat Pruethong, who is competing in Japan, to the national U23 team for the CFA Team China 2026 international tournament, demonstrating their determination to strengthen the squad with quality young talents from abroad.

Club Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo congratulated the 19-year-old player after his national team call-up. This marks a notable milestone in Theerapat's career and reflects his significant progress within the Japanese football environment.

Born in 2007, Theerapat Pruethong plays as a winger, with strengths in speed and breakthrough ability. Playing in Japan and debuting in professional leagues has allowed him to accumulate valuable experience, making him a major offensive hope for Thailand U23 in the upcoming tournament.

Regarding this opportunity, Theerapat Pruethong expressed: "I am very happy to be selected for the Thailand national U23 team. I want to fight wholeheartedly for the national team with everything I have learned from my experience at this club. I hope Sapporo fans and Thai football fans will support the Thailand national team and myself."

The CFA Team China – Xi'an 2026 tournament will take place from March 25 to 31 within the FIFA Days framework, serving as a crucial preparatory step for Thailand U23 towards long-term goals like ASIAD 2026. The team is actively training and focusing on the key match against China U23.

Coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul now has a stronger squad compared to before, with the return of Kakana Khamyok and Thanakrit Chotimueangpak. Notably, Theerapat had been summoned previously but could not join due to his club's lack of approval.