The issue of which clubs will be playing in the Thai Premier League this season has finally been settled. Due to financial problems, Saraburi have dropped down along with already relegated Thai Port and TOT with BEC Tero remaining in the top flight.
Division 1 Champions Police United will not be promoted because of major financial problems. Sukothai beat Nakhonpathom 1-0 in the unplayed match from last season due to floodlight failure to join Pattaya United and BBCU in the Premier League.
Thailand suffered a blow in the Asian Champions League play-offs with both Muang Thong and Chonburi being eliminated. Chonburi were blown away 9-0 by FC Tokyo in Japan whilst Muang Thong went down 3-0 to Shanghai SIPG in China.
Although many Buriram fans will be happy with these results, it is in everyone’s best interests that Thai clubs do well and improve Thailand’s ranking in the AFC. At the moment only the League Champions are guarranteed a place in the group stages and only consistent performances in the play-offs can raise it to two.
Another situation was also resolved this week. The new President of the Thai FA is Pol. Gen. Somyot Poompanmoung (pictured below) following the election which was scrutinized by both the AFC and FIFA.
