Thai men's football team geared up for their third Group B match of the 2023 SEA Games on Monday, but their coach Issara Sritaro admitted his mind was already on the knockout phase of the event.
Thailand have already claimed six points from their first two group matches after impressively beating Singapore 3-1 in the opener last week and Malaysia 2-0 on Saturday.
Issara on Sunday gave the credit for those victories to players.
"The players helped each other very well and got the results we wanted," said Issara.
"For the game with Laos, we have to check the fitness of players first.
"Actually, we have already started planning for the next round but we are not taking anything for granted in our remaining two group games.
"There are some players with injuries because we have to play quite frequently but I hope they will be fit soon.
"The weather during the game with Malaysia was 39C and it had a telling affect on both teams and the referee as well. We were lucky to get the win we were seeking."
Meanwhile, Chiang Rai United midfielder Setthasit Suwannaset on Sunday joined the team in Cambodia.
Setthasit said: "I am ready to play and help the team. I will try to add something to our strengths upfront."
Team manager Yutthana Yimkaroon said: "The aim remains to win all four group matches and top the group. To achieve our goal we would have to stay focused and follow the game plans."
The match against Laos will kick off at 4pm at the Prince Stadium.
