Anthony Hudson Hails Players’ Character After Secure FIFA ASEAN Cup Final
Thailand secured their place in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 final after defeating Vietnam 2-0 at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Bandung on Tuesday, September 29. The victory also moved Anthony Hudson’s side to the top of the Group B standings.
Thailand produced a disciplined and determined performance throughout the contest, with their superior efficiency in front of goal ultimately making the difference. Sarach Yooyen opened the scoring before Chaiyaphon Otton doubled the advantage after the interval.
Hudson was delighted with the mentality shown by his players in a high-pressure encounter. Although he admitted that Thailand did not always perform exactly as intended, he praised their ability to adapt and fight through a difficult match.
“Congratulations to the players for everything they gave tonight in a very, very difficult game. Overall, our performance may not have fully reflected the way we wanted to play, but sometimes matches simply unfold like this,” Hudson told reporters.
The England-born coach also acknowledged the challenge posed by Vietnam, who had entered the match on a remarkable 26-game unbeaten run. That record, along with Thailand’s recent struggles against their regional rivals, had created additional psychological pressure ahead of the meeting.
“Psychologically, there was a little bit of pressure that affected our performance, especially against a team that has been so strong for such a long period. They had not lost in their previous 26 matches. In fact, Thailand had not beaten them for the last two years,” Hudson said.
Despite those concerns, Thailand eventually produced the response their coach had been demanding. Hudson even reflected on their previous meeting at the King’s Cup, believing his team had deserved to win that encounter, but insisted Tuesday’s result was ultimately a product of their character and determination.
“Honestly, I think we should have beaten them at the King’s Cup because we played better that day. But tonight we showed tremendous character and fighting spirit. The players were excellent, and I am extremely proud of them,” he added.
The victory also came at an encouraging moment for Hudson personally after he recently signed a contract extension with Thailand. The coach expressed his satisfaction at continuing to work with a squad he considers among the finest groups he has coached.
“I am very happy to have signed this extension because this is an incredible group of players. As I said at my first press conference, this is one of the best groups I have ever coached, both in terms of personality and character,” Hudson explained.
The Thailand manager also highlighted the unity within his squad, insisting that the players’ commitment has been evident throughout the campaign. He reserved praise for the opposition as well, acknowledging Vietnam’s quality and the work of their coaching staff.
“You could see it tonight. Everyone gives everything every day. They competed against a team that continues to develop and has many outstanding players. Their coach is also doing an excellent job,” Hudson concluded.
Thailand can now carry the confidence from a statement victory over Vietnam into the final stage of the tournament. For Hudson, the result represents more than simply reaching the next stage, with his players’ resilience and collective spirit providing the foundation for their continued pursuit of silverware.
