The wait is finally over as the 2024 ASEAN Championship, Southeast Asia’s biggest soccer tournament, kicked off on Sunday with record six-time champions Thailand beginning their title defense. The War Elephants are seeking an unprecedented third consecutive crown, but face stiff challenges right out of the gate in a talent-stacked Group A.
Familiar Foes Highlight Intriguing Group A
Thailand find themselves in the so-called “Group of Death” alongside perennial contenders Malaysia and Singapore. The trio have combined for 11 of the 13 championships since the tournament’s inception in 1996 and engaged in numerous classic battles over the years.
The Thais and Malaysians renewed acquaintances in a highly-anticipated opening match, having also been drawn together in the same World Cup qualifying group last year where they split their two meetings. Meanwhile, the Lions of Singapore can never be counted out with their rich history of success.
This is always the most difficult and most exciting group. We know each other so well and have had so many great matches against one another. Every game will be like a final.
– Thailand head coach Mano Polking
Minnows Cambodia, Timor-Leste Aim to Surprise
Rounding out Group A are Cambodia and Timor-Leste, both aiming to spring an upset or two against their more heralded opponents. The Cambodians in particular have shown real signs of progress, nearly making the final round of World Cup qualifying last time out.
While still underdogs, Cambodia and Timor-Leste have steadily closed the gap in recent years and will relish the opportunity to measure themselves against the region’s best. A victory over one of the traditional powers would mark a major milestone in their continued ascent.
Compelling Clashes Await in Group B
The action in Group B promises to be no less captivating with Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines headlining a fascinating quintet. Those three nations were also clustered together in the previous World Cup qualifying cycle, producing several thrilling affairs.
Indonesia look to build on their surprise run to the final last time out where they fell to Thailand in extra time. Vietnam, led by talismanic attacker Nguyen Quang Hai, have their sights set on a first title since 2008. And the Azkals of the Philippines aim to better their historic semi-final showing from 2018.
We have unfinished business after coming so close to glory last tournament. This is a very motivated group ready to take that next step.
– Indonesia star Egy Maulana
Myanmar, Laos Round Out Competitive Field
Flying under the radar are Myanmar and Laos, both eager to make some noise and improve upon lackluster showings in 2022. Myanmar in particular could be primed for a breakout with several young stars coming off strong club campaigns.
In a tournament renowned for its parity and unpredictability, all ten teams harbor legitimate hopes of a deep run. Early momentum often proves pivotal in this compact, pressure-packed environment where there is little margin for error.
Key Absences Add Intrigue for Favorites
The group stage takes on added importance this year with several top sides missing key personnel. Thailand will have to make do without star attackers Teerasil Dangda and Chanathip Songkrasin, both out injured. Their absences place added pressure on the remaining squad to avoid an early slip-up.
- Veteran leadership vital in navigating challenges
- Opportunity for unheralded players to emerge
Over in Group B, Vietnam face similar concerns with midfield metronome Nguyen Quang Hai in a race against time to recover from a knee issue. For a side so reliant on his creativity, the Golden Star Warriors must find other sources of inspiration.
You can never replace a player of Quang Hai’s quality, but this is a chance for some new heroes to be born. Our strength is in the collective.
– Vietnam coach Park Hang-seo
Tournament Poised for Thrilling Kickoff
From top to bottom, this shapes up as arguably the most compelling ASEAN Championship field ever assembled. Even supposed minnows like Cambodia and Timor-Leste have the potential to shake things up in a tournament where expect the unexpected is par for the course.
Will Thailand become the first nation to three-peat? Can Indonesia or Malaysia finally end their title droughts? Might Vietnam or Singapore add to their respective trophy cases? Or will a new champion emerge from the chasing pack? The next month promises no shortage of drama and heroics.
Catch All the ASEAN Championship Action
- Thailand: THAIRATH (SOCIAL MEDIA), TRUE VISIONS, BG SPORTS ON YOUTUBE, AISPLAY, LOTTERY PLUS
- Malaysia: ASTRO
- Singapore: MEDIACORP/MEWATCH
- Vietnam: VTV, FPT PLAY
- Indonesia: MNC: RCTI, VISION+
The 2024 ASEAN Championship is shaping up to be an unforgettable showcase of the region’s brightest talents and most passionate fanbases. Hold on tight and enjoy the ride – the Road to Southeast Asian Supremacy begins now!
