Late Waris Choolthong Strike Seals Perfect Group Stage Start
Thailand defeated the Philippines 1-0 in New Clark City, with substitute Waris Choolthong scoring six minutes from time to keep the War Elephants perfect through three matches in Group B of the 2026 ASEAN Championship, also known as the ASEAN Hyundai Cup. The result moved Thailand to nine points, extending their unbeaten start to the tournament following an opening win and a 2-0 victory over Malaysia in Bangkok earlier in the competition.
Thailand's win over Malaysia was sealed by goals from Yotsakon Burapha and Teerasak Poeiphimai, underlining the squad's attacking depth heading into the final round of group matches. The narrow win over the Philippines, by contrast, showed the War Elephants grinding out a result against a well-organised opponent, with the decisive breakthrough coming only in the closing stages of the match.
Thailand Face Myanmar in Final Group Match with Semi-Final Spot in Sight
Thailand will close out their Group B campaign against Myanmar, with a draw enough to guarantee progression to the semi-finals regardless of other results in the group. The match comes as Malaysia and the Philippines also battle for qualification, with Group B reaching its climax in the tournament's final round of fixtures. The 2026 ASEAN Championship runs from July 24 to August 26, bringing together the region's top national teams in a biennial competition that has grown into one of Southeast Asia's most closely followed sporting events. Thailand have historically been among the tournament's most successful sides, and a strong showing this year would extend that record as the War Elephants look to add to their trophy cabinet on home turf and abroad.
