Chanathip challenges, Thailand aims to win ASEAN championship ahead of Vietnam

Midfielder Chanathip Songkrasin sends a strong message ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Cup, stating that the Thai team will go all out to reclaim the regional championship.

The 2026 ASEAN Cup is heating up more than ever as captain Chanathip Songkrasin officially announces his return. After having to sit out and watch Vietnam win the previous edition, "Thai Messi" openly expresses his ambition for revenge and to restore the Golden Temple nation's football to its top regional position.

For Thai football, losing the championship to Vietnam in the last edition was a heavy blow to their pride. Chanathip admits that the Southeast Asian championship always brings him the most emotions, but this time the significance also lies in reaffirming the "War Elephants" value against their biggest regional rival.

Although 32 years old and no longer at his peak speed as during his J-League days, the BG Pathum United star remains the "soul" of Thailand's gameplay. He declares: “The ASEAN Championship represents national pride. We want to win for our fans and will do everything to lift the trophy once again.”This statement serves as a direct challenge to the reigning champion Vietnam.

Despite being confident, Chanathip still respects the progress of regional football, especially the rapidly improving rivals. He shares: “All Southeast Asian teams have progressed quickly. The tournament is increasingly competitive, and no match is easy anymore.”. Thailand being in Group B alongside Malaysia and the Philippines requires high concentration from the group stage before considering a potential knockout clash with Vietnam.

Chanathip's return under coach Anthony Hudson is expected to bring a new face to Thailand. After a not entirely successful club season, he sees the ASEAN Cup as an opportunity to regain glory. The goal of winning a historic eighth championship is not just a title, but also a way for Thailand to prove that their loss to Vietnam in the previous final was merely an accident.

“The whole team will give everything to bring the cup back to Thailand.”, Chanathip emphasizes. This year's race for the Southeast Asian crown promises to be a breathless battle between the resilience of the "War Elephants" and the tenacity of the Golden Star Warriors.