Thailand head coach Anthony Hudson believes having his players rested and fully fit after a tough away game against the Philippines will be crucial as the War Elephants prepare to take on Myanmar in the final Group B match of the Asean Hyundai Cup on Saturday.
The seven‑time champions, heavily rotated from the side that beat Malaysia, secured their third consecutive win in the group stage after they edged the Philippines 1-0 on Tuesday night, thanks to a late strike from Waris Choolthong.
"It was a difficult journey travelling to the Philippines. We got to the hotel at almost 3 or 4am. We only had one training session before the game. Now we have to focus on ensuring the players are in the best possible physical condition for the last group match against Myanmar," said Hudson.
"Fortunately we could rest some players for the match against the Philippines after the first two games. Some players had cramps or minor injuries and those who came in performed well and gave us options. Our goal for the match against Myanmar is to win," added the English coach.
Thailand have won all three of their Group B matches so far. They started with a 5-0 away win against Laos, followed by a 2-0 home win against Malaysia, before claiming a 1-0 victory over the Philippines.
Hudson's men have accumulated nine points, putting them top of the group and on the verge of securing qualification for the knockout stage.
Myanmar are second in the group with six points from three games. The match will kick off at 8pm at Rajamangala National Stadium.
