Sport
Thai Coach Leads Lao Youth Team to Junior Soccer World Challenge Victory
A Thai coach has guided the Lao youth team, Mazda GB, to a stunning 3-2 victory over FC Barcelona in the Junior Soccer World Challenge 2026 final in Japan.
In a remarkable sporting achievement reported by Khaosod Online, the Lao youth football team Mazda GB secured the championship title at the Junior Soccer World Challenge 2026 held in Japan. The team achieved a surprise 3-2 victory against the youth squad of Spanish giants FC Barcelona in the final match.
Central to this success is the team's head coach, Anithat 'Coach Aem' Pannavee, a Thai national. Coach Aem is well-regarded in Thai football circles, having previously led the Nongbua Pitchaya FC youth team to multiple titles, including the Department of Physical Education’s 18-year-old 'A' and 'B' division championships, as well as a runner-up finish in the 16-year-old 'A' division.
For residents and visitors interested in regional sports development, this victory highlights the growing influence of Thai coaching expertise in Southeast Asian youth football. The performance of Mazda GB serves as a significant milestone for Lao youth football and underscores the rising profile of Coach Aem as a promising figure in the sport. While the tournament results are confirmed, further details regarding the long-term development plans for these young players and the future career trajectory of Coach Aem remain to be seen.