Jude Soonsup-Bell Targets FIFA ASEAN Cup Glory With Thailand
Soonsup-Bell has set Thailand’s target for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup: win it. The Port FC forward, 22, says he is fully committed to helping the War Elephants lift the new regional trophy after choosing to represent his ancestral country over continuing his youth international path with England.
Thailand begin Division 1 test in Indonesia
Thailand open their Division 1 campaign between September 24 and October 5, with Vietnam, the Philippines and Pakistan standing between Anthony Hudson’s side and progress.
The War Elephants arrive in Indonesia among the leading contenders, and Soonsup-Bell is expected to carry a major attacking burden. The former Chelsea academy player and ex-Tottenham forward has made clear that his ambition is collective rather than personal.
“Thailand’s main objective at the ASEAN Cup is to win it,” he said. “I’ll do everything I can to help the team lift the trophy.”
From difficult debut to immediate response
Soonsup-Bell’s start in Thailand colours was not straightforward. He missed a penalty during his first appearance against Singapore in November 2025, but answered that setback in the next significant opportunity by scoring twice against Sri Lanka in 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying.
- November 2025: Soonsup-Bell makes his Thailand debut against Singapore and misses a penalty.
- Next qualifying assignment: the forward responds with two goals against Sri Lanka in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
- September 24-October 5: Thailand face Vietnam, the Philippines and Pakistan in FIFA ASEAN Cup Division 1.
The forward said the Singapore disappointment intensified his determination to deliver in front of goal.
“It was a big match for me because it was my first international,” he said. “I want to lead by example, help the side and score. Missing that penalty gave me more motivation for the next game, and I was able to get on the scoresheet.”
England youth caps left behind for Thailand
Soonsup-Bell did not require persuasion before declaring for Thailand, despite his previous England youth involvement. He says representing the Changsuek was the choice he wanted to make.
“I didn’t need convincing,” he said. “I wanted to play for Thailand.”
That decision has put him at the centre of a Thailand attack seeking a first major statement in FIFA’s new ASEAN competition. His recovery from the missed spot-kick has also given Hudson evidence that the forward can handle the pressure of tournament football.
A regional stage with bigger implications
Soonsup-Bell believes the tournament can do more than settle a regional champion. He sees it as an opportunity for Southeast Asian football to display its rising standard and push further investment in facilities, coaching and wider infrastructure.
He pointed to improved FIFA World Ranking positions across the region as evidence of progress, while insisting sustained development will be needed for the next step.
“The rankings show how much football in Southeast Asia has developed,” he said. “The level is getting better every year. With the right people, support and infrastructure, it can keep moving forward and reach a much higher level.”
- Soonsup-Bell has committed his international future to Thailand after England youth caps.
- His first Thailand appearance included a missed penalty against Singapore in November 2025.
- He bounced back with a brace against Sri Lanka in 2027 Asian Cup qualifying.
- Thailand’s Division 1 opponents are Vietnam, the Philippines and Pakistan.
- The forward says Thailand are targeting the trophy, not merely a strong showing.
Supporters could shape Thailand’s push
Thailand will also rely on the intensity generated by their supporters as they chase silverware on Indonesian soil. Soonsup-Bell said the team’s responsibility is to pursue victories, but that the atmosphere created by fans can have a decisive effect.
“We will always try to win and give everything,” he said. “The support helps us enormously, especially when the atmosphere is so special.”
