Thailand seek ninth gold as they take on Vietnam

The gold medal in the men's soccer competition of the Games, which will officially start next week in Laos, is of great importance to Thailand to such an extent that the overall medal title would be meaningless if they fail to win the title people covet most.

Normally, a win in the first game of the group phase is significant in term of qualification but the maximum points against Vietnam would even be of greater value, considering the fact that the Vietnamese are considered as the strongest opponents in the section.

It will be a baptism by fire for Steve Darby, who will be in charge of the team. The assistant to national coach Bryan Robson, who was assigned by the Football Association of Thailand to lead the Under-23 side at the Games, was, however, confident his men would make a winning start.

Darby's confidence derives from the fact that he received a clean bill of heath as all the players at his disposal were available for the selection. The athletes' feeling of playing at home in Laos was another positive factor for the chances of Darby's side against Vietnam.

"There's nothing to worry. Everyone is in good condition. The players need not have to adapt themselves much to the surroundings here since everything is similar to Thailand. They feel like they're at home. They're raring to go," said Darby.

The Englishman, though, said his charges would give the respect the Vietnamese deserved.

"They're a good side. They have a good striker and their goalkeeper is also reliable. The team's organisation is good as well. I've studied their form a lot to ensure we've all information about them.

 "I'll urge every player not to underestimate the Vietnamese. I think if the team can play to their standard, we should not have any problem. I believe my players can get a result on Wednesday and we'd like to be playing again on the final day of the SEA Games."

Darby also revealed he already had the starting line-up in his mind but was weighing up the option of restoring forward Teerasil Dangda, who shook off his injury, into the team.

Meanwhile, Vietnam's Portuguese coach Henrique Calisto admitted that no matter what the result on Wednesday will be, his side will make the utmost attempt.

"Just win, just lose or just draw, we still don't know, but we will do our best in the match," he said. "The last time we met Thailand the match ended in a draw, so we don't know what will happen on Wednesday."

 The hugely-anticipated match between Thailand and Vietnam will be shown live on Channel 11 from 5.45pm.