Thai media happy with Son Heung-min's poor form ahead of World Cup qualifier

Son Heung-min thanks fans after the 3-3 draw with Malaysia at the Asian Cup's group stage on Jan. 25, 2024. Photo by AP

In the Premier League at the weekend, fifth-place Tottenham Hotspur suffered a surprising 3-0 defeat to Fulham. After the game, Son, who is also Tottenham's captain, was not pleased with the performance of his teammates and his current form.

However, Son's frustration boosts optimism for Thai football, as Thailand will play South Korea in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on March 21 and 26.

"Son Heung-min and his teammates performed below average. Son admitted it himself after the game," Thai newspaper Siam Sports wrote.

On March 21, South Korea will host Thailand at home. Five days later, Thailand will play South Korea in Bangkok.

Siam Sports also quoted Thailand captain Chanathip Songkrasin, who insisted that his team would surprise South Korea.

"South Korea are stronger than us in many aspects, but in football, you cannot predict anything. Thailand can get a draw or even a win against South Korea," Chanathip said. "Although our chance of winning is only 1%, we can increase those chances with thorough preparation."

If Thailand can create a surprise against South Korea, Songkrasin and his teammates will move one step closer to the next qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup. Singapore and China make up the rest of Group C, with the latter being Thailand’s main competitor for a spot in the next round, as South Korea are predicted to top the group with no difficulties.