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Published on December 11, 2007

The hosts finished the group phase as the Group A winners winning all their matches. More importantly, Thongsuk's men had the best offensive and defensive records in the first round.

The Thai team scored an incredible 13 goals in their group campaign while they conceded only three, two of which came in their opening match against Burma which they won.

Thailand's impressive goal difference stemmed from the form of their strikers, Teeratep "Leesaw" Winothai, Manchester City-bound Teerasil Daengda and Anont Sangsanoi, who combined to score nine goals.

Initially, Thongsuk's first-choice pair was Leesaw and Teerasil. However, Anont staked his claim in the starting line-up with four goals in two games against Cambodia and Indonesia when he deputised for injured Teerasil.

Given that Teerasil has shaken off his injury, Thongsuk conceded that he faces what he called "a welcome dilemma" in picking his attackers for the game against the Singaporeans, who qualified as Group B runners-up.

"It's good that our strikers are all in good form. It is clearly benefits the team. I welcome such a situation," Thongsuk said. Anont appears to have done enough to convince Thongsuk after the coach said he was likely to stick to most of the side that beat Indonesia 2-1 in their last group game.

"I don't want to make many changes to the team that performed very well as it could have a detrimental effect. Anont is in confident mood and a player in such a state of mind normally plays well.

"Given the significance of the game, he appears to hold the edge," Thongsuk said.

However, one player who is certain to face the axe is goalkeeper Veera Kerdputsa, whose error gifted Indonesia the equaliser before Anont settled the matters in emphatic fashion. Sivaruk Terdsoongnern, who played in the 8-0 mauling of Cambodia, will replace Veera.

Thongsuk remained wary of the Singaporeans despite their unconvincing form in the group stage, which saw them held to the goalless draw with Laos.

"They [Singapore] normally play a counter-attacking game. Their attackers are quick so we need to be alert in defence," Thongsuk said.

"We must impose ourselves to put pressure on them. Their defenders are slow and will have a problem in coping with our strikers. We also need to control our tempers. I believe we could win in normal time," Thongsuk said.

The game will be telecast live on Channel 3 from 7.45pm.

The Nation

Nakhon Ratchasima