BANGKOK (28 Feb 2012) – Winfried Schaefer, the chief coach of Thailand is confident of winning the runners-up spot in Group D to make the next round of the 2014 World Cup qualifying round.
With Australia already confirming their place in the next round, the runners-up position is still open for Thailand, Oman or Saudi Arabia.
The Thais are hoping that a win over Oman at the Bauscher Sports Complex in Muscat will see their progress while Saudi Arabia fall to Australia in their final group game at the AAMI Park in Australia.
“Every player is looking forward to the match and we can beat Oman with our teamwork,” said Schafer.
“Beating Oman will be difficult but we can do it if we have a bit of luck.”
In the meantime, the draw for the final round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers will be held on 9 March 2012. The AFC stated that they will confirm the 10 qualified Member Associations who are eligible to participate in the Final Round upon the completion of Round 3 on 29 February.
The 10 Member Associations will qualify for the Final Round of the competition by virtue of finishing as winners and runners-up from Round 3 in their respective groups.
The 10 teams will be drawn into two round -robin, home-and-away groups of five teams each for the Final Round.
CURRENT GROUP D STANDINGS
| Team | GP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
| AUSTRALIA | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 9 | 3 | 6 | 12 |
| SAUDI ARABIA | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 6 |
| OMAN | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 6 | -5 | 5 |
| THAILAND | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 6 | -2 | 4 |
