Dutch greats set to test champions Muangthong

Ron van Oijen, AIA Thailand

Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven will send their A squad up against reigning champions of Thailand Muangthong United in a friendly on January 8 at SCG Stadium. The former European and Uefa Cup winners, who will be spearheaded by skipper Kevin Strootman and Belgian international Dries Mertens, will compete against Muangthong in the AIA Champions Cup PSV Centennial Asia Tour 2013.

"The chance to play against world-renowned PSV Eindhoven is a truly special occasion for us," said Muangthong club chairman Pongsak Phol-anan. "The game between the two teams means so much to our players, as next year we not only have to defend our Thailand Premier League title, but also face fierce competition in the AFC Champions League. Playing against a much stronger team will give us invaluable experience and will prepare us well for our future challenges." Ron van Oijen, CEO of sponsors AIA Thailand, said the aim was to bring Thai soccer fans unique experiences. "This is a wonderful opportunity for players at all levels and ages to experience the soccer's 'world stage'," said van Oijen.

He was referring to the football clinics for youths aged 10 to 13 being held alongside the Cup on January 7, along with a football management workshop for local football clubs.

AIA sponsors 29 Thai football teams in an ongoing effort to boost the Thai game up to the international level.

The Muangthong v PSV game kicks off at 7pm, with fun activities from 5pm at the SCG Stadium. Tickets at Bt150, Bt200 and Bt300 are available at ThaiTicketMajor (AIA customers get a Bt50 discount plus access to the live broadcast of the game on TrueSports 2 and TrueSports HD.

Latest stories in this category

• Asia no match for Europe


• Olazabal's prayers answered as champs take the..


• Two-wheel champs set for four-wheel test


• Coach believes teamwork will win Thais the Asean..

We Recommend

• 1st-car scheme causing traffic jams


• The government's first-car tax rebate scheme has..


• Airship crash hurts four


• Experts call for end to death penalty in Thailand

Comments conditions

Users are solely responsible for their comments.We reserve the right to remove any comment and revoke posting rights for any reason withou prior notice.

Article source: http://www.thethailandlinks.com/2012/12/15/dutch-greats-set-to-test-champions-muangthong/