Manager to give team Bt1 million for every goal
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Thailand's women football team manager Nuanphan Lamsam has offered her side Bt1 million for every goal they score against hosts South Korea when they begin the Asian Games campaign today.
Despite heading into the Games on the back of a historic success – clinching of a berth in the women’s World Cup finals in Canada next year – the Thai side are the underdogs against the Koreans in their opening Group A match at Namdong Asiad Rugby Field Stadium.
Nevertheless, Nuanphan was hoping the Thai women would put up an improved performance against the hosts, whom they had beaten in the Olympics qualifying match some six years ago.
“I’m a bit concerned about the South Korea match because a few of our players are struggling with injuries, which could possibly rule them out of the game.
“However, other players are ready. The dedication of our coaches, who have worked out a strategy to cope with the Koreans, I hope the team would fare better than in the past.”
In a bid to boost the morale of the team and against overwhelming favourites Koreans, Nuanphan had decided to award Bt1 million for every goal the Thais score.
“The coaches have carefully drawn up a plan, both defence and offence. But, we need to avoid physical challenges since we are at a disadvantage, physically. We’re inferior to them in almost every aspect, be it experience or support from the home crowd.
“However, anything is possible in football if we show strong dedication and determination and play like we do in training. The Bt1 million offer is to give the team some extra motivation,” said Nuanphan.
Channel 7 will televise the match live from 6pm.
