Bangkok: Reigning champions Thailand will take to the field in the AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2022 for the second time on Monday as they take on the Philippines in a Group A encounter at the Thammasat Stadium in Bangkok.

The War Elephants, who are looking for a record-extending seventh regional title, began their campaign with a 5-0 win over Brunei Darussalam. Veteran striker Teerasil Dangda scored his 20th goal in AFF Championship history while substitute Peeradon Chamratsamee bagged a late brace in the opening day victory.

Meanwhile, a new-look Philippines side, after a surprise 3-2 defeat to Cambodia in their opener, bounced back on the second matchday as they dispatched Brunei DS 5-1 for what was Spanish tactician Josep Ferre’s first win after taking charge of the Azkals.

United City’s Kenshiro Daniels scored his third goal of the tournament in that big win, taking the pole position in the race for the golden boot, while Jesus Melliza, Sandro Reyes and Sebastian Rasmussen, with a double, all got on the scoresheet as Ferre’s changes seemed to have revitalised the Philippines.

For Thailand, it was the usual suspects Teerasil and captain Theerathon Bunmathan who stepped up as Alexandre Polking looks to guide his team to the title without the influential Chanathip Songkrasin to call upon.

Theerathon, playing in a midfield role, was sharp with his supply into the box while 34-year-old Teerasil was unfortunate not to have bagged more than one goal.

The defending champions’ strength in depth, despite missing 2014, 2016 and 2020 MVP Chanathip, was on full display against Brunei DS as Buriram United midfielder Peeradon came off the bench to score twice in the second-half stoppage time – first from the penalty spot and then with a thumping strike from range.

The Philippines are yet to post a win against Thailand in the AFF Championship history. The last time the two sides met was in the group stages of the 2020 edition when Teerasil scored twice to hand Thailand a 2-1 win at Singapore's National Stadium.

Thailand will face a much tougher test compared to their opener as they face the Philippines on Monday, but it will be one their fans will expect them to come out as winners as they play at home for the first time in the AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2022