After Thailand's 4-0 win over Pakistan on September 26, coach Anthony Hudson described the upcoming match with Vietnam as his team's most important Group B fixture at the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. VnExpress reported that he stressed respect for Vietnam, careful preparation and recovery time for his players before the September 29 meeting.

Hudson also highlighted squad management with matches roughly three days apart. His comments describe a pre-match priority, not a confirmed starting lineup or a result.