Sport
Thailand U17 Women’s Football Team Prepares for Srikandi Merdeka Cup
Head coach Thidarat Wiwasukhu is using the upcoming Srikandi Merdeka Cup in Indonesia as a key testing ground for the Thai U17 women's squad ahead of Asian qualifiers.
According to Khaosod Online Thailand, the Thailand U17 women’s national football team has arrived in Kudus, Indonesia, to participate in the Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026. The tournament, scheduled to run from August 14 to August 23, serves as a critical preparation phase for the squad as they gear up for upcoming Asian qualification matches.
Head coach Thidarat Wiwasukhu, accompanied by player Kawinthida Kikhunthod, attended the pre-tournament press conference at the Super Soccer Arena on August 13. Thailand has been drawn into Group B alongside Singapore, Jordan, and Indonesia B (Putri Nusantara). The format requires teams to play a round-robin series, with the top two teams from the group advancing to the semi-finals.
For residents and visitors interested in regional sports, this tournament offers a glimpse into the development of Thailand’s youth football talent. While the primary goal is tactical testing and team cohesion, the performance of the squad in Indonesia will provide insights into their readiness for the broader Asian competition. It remains to be confirmed how the team will adjust to the local conditions in Kudus and whether the current roster will remain intact for the subsequent qualification rounds. Fans can follow the progress of the team throughout the ten-day event.