Exploit Thailand's error-prone defence, says Riedl

THEY are the undisputed soccer kingpins of South-east Asia.

But, as Vietnam showed in the semi-finals, Thailand are by no means infallible.

Said Vietnam coach Alfred Riedl: 'Man for man, the Thais are the best side in South-east Asia.

'But they are not prolific enough in front of goal.

'And defensively, they make mistakes when you put them under pressure.

'These are their weaknesses and Singapore must exploit them in the final.'

Despite going down 0-2, the Vietnamese dominated the first leg of the semi-final in Hanoi last Wednesday.

They had several clear-cut scoring chances, including a penalty, which they missed.

The second leg in Bangkok on Sunday ended 0-0.

For all the attacking talent of Sutee Suksomkit and Datsakorn Thonglao, the Thais have struggled in front of goal.

They managed only six goals in the group stage, four of them against minnows the Philippines.

Sarayoot Chaikamdee is their top scorer with three.

The Lions can gain some pointers from Vietnam's performance, particularly in the first leg.

The Vietnamese took the game to their opponents, having more possession and preventing the talented Thai midfielders from dictating play.

They also managed to exploit the space behind Thailand's fullbacks by attacking down the flanks.

Said Riedl: 'We were unlucky. Over the two games, we were the better side.

'We had the chances to score in the first leg, but we did not take them.

'The Thais had two chances and they scored.'

Even Thailand team manager Thavatchai Sajakul agreed.

He told the Bangkok Post: 'The win in Hanoi was almost a fluke because the two goals we got were from a 30-metre free kick and a defensive error. Vietnam were always dangerous.'

However, the odds are stacked against the Lions.

Singapore have not beaten Thailand in regulation time since a 2-0 win in a World Cup qualifier in 1977.

According to Riedl, gaining a first-leg advantage will be crucial to Singapore's hopes of retaining the title.

He said: 'Singapore have a good chance, provided that all 11 players put in their best performances.

'The first game at home is very important.

'Singapore have to score. If not, it will be very hard in Bangkok.'