'We will give Malaysia nightmare' - Thailand's Chatchai lobs warning

Thailand's Chatchai Budprom has promised to give Malaysia a torrid night in Bangkok, in their second leg AFF Championship semi-final match.

BY ZULHILMI ZAINAL Follow on Twitter

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Ahead of the second leg AFF Championship clash between Thailand and Malaysia in Bangkok on Wednesday, the home team goalkeeper Chatchai Budprom has thrown down the gauntlet.

"This is Thailand, this is the home of the War Elephants. Today, I wish them (Malaysia) a good night's sleep, because tomorrow we will give them a nightmare," warned Chatchai in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

But the custodian had a gentler message for the home fans, asking that they get behind the team.

Since the tournament began, the team, playing in the tournament without several of their Europe and Japan-based stars, have been criticised for their more defensive gameplan, including their encounter against Malaysia last Saturday.

"We are all Thais, we all support Thailand. Tomorrow will be like a war. We may make mistakes, but we know you (fans) are behind us.

"Every squad member is dedicated to the national team, although everyone is tired after almost a long month in the tournament. Keep supporting us," implored the Bangkok Glass player.

They might have been taken aback by the Harimau Malaya's dominance in the first leg goalless draw at Bukit Jalil last Saturday, but playing at home on Wednesday with no suspensions nor injuries, they are expected to capitalise on the home support at the Rajamangala Stadium.

"Everybody is aware of the challenges and the task, but they are motivated.

"Malaysia had fantastic support in the first match, but we also will have our home support tomorrow," remarked head coach Milovan Rajevac.

The second leg semi-final match in Bangkok will be played on Wednesday, December 5, 8.00 pm Malaysian time.

Keep updated on the 2018 AFF Championship!