Thailand’s War Elephants aiming for an upset over China – Asian Cup

PHOTO: Chanathip Songkrasin (First from the left) getting ready for tonight’s game with his fellow teammates

Make sure dinner is wrapped up and the kids are in bed by 9pm because it’s Asian Cup round-of-sixteen time with China lining up against Thailand.

J-League star Chanathip Songkrasin says he’s determined to spearhead Thailand to an upset over the powerful China team as the two nations face off in the Asian Cup round of 16 at 9pm today in Al Ain.

The Consadole Sapporo midfielder is ready to take up a huge challenge against the two-time finalists supervised by Italian legend Marcello Lippi, manager of the Italy’s 2006 World Cup winning team.

“This is a knockout stage. If we lose, it means we have to go home. But that’s not what we want. We still hope to continue in the tournament,” said 25 year old Chanathip who produced the winning goal for Thailand during the group A stage against Bahrain, taking them into the round of sixteen.

“We wont underestimate China. We have to stick to the game plan and stay really focussed. Chinese players are very strong and have aggressive game. They have improved dramatically. We need to rely on a good teamwork like we’ve done so far.”

The game will be broadcast live on Channel 7 and Fox Sports HD at 9pm tonight.

SOURCE: The Nation