Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Bangkok: Coach Adul Rungruang talked up Thailand's experience ahead of Saturday's AFC U-16 Championship Group A opener against Malaysia at Muangthong Stadium.
Thailand, who won the tournament in 1998, were eliminated in the group stage in 2012 having failed to qualify for the three previous editions.
But with Thailand hosting the 2014 edition in Bangkok which offers the four semi-finalists qualification for the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, Rungruang hopes home advantage can help his team improve on recent performances.
"We have lots of experienced players who play in international leagues and the Thai league, so we want to qualify for the next round," said Rungruang.
"The tournament will also be a good experience in helping Thailand qualify for the World Cup."
Malaysia warmed up for the tournament with friendlies against Vietnam and local side Chonburi as Balachandran Sithamparam's side prepare to make their first appearance at the AFC U-16 Championship since 2008.
"We have held a training session every day since July and are looking forward to the tournament," said Sithamparam.
"We have prepared well by playing both Vietnam and Chonburi, who play a similar style to Thailand.
"Playing the hosts will be a tough game and both teams want to qualify, but we are prepared to counter Thailand's style and the best team will win."
Later on Saturday at Muangthong Stadium, 2002 and 1986 winners Korea Republic will take on fellow two-time champions Oman in the other Group A opener.
Korea Republic, who lost to eventual champions Uzbekistan on penalties in the 2012 quarter-finals, are boosted by the presence of Barcelona duo Lee Seung-woo and Jang Gyeol-hee in their squad in Thailand.
Striker Lee, though, will miss Saturday's meeting with Oman due to suspension.
"We have had four domestic training camps and played in international tournaments in France and Mexico as part of our preparation," said coach Choi Jin-cheul.
"We need to pay attention to the first match as it is not easy and Oman are a strong side.
"It's not easy to play so many games in succession, but the players had the same experience in Mexico. We must focus on the players' recovery from matches as their fitness and condition is very important."
Oman won the competition in 1996 and 2000 and Ya'qoub Al Sabahi's side has headed to Thailand following training camps in Oman, Turkey and Uzbekistan.
"Korea are one of Asia's best teams and are always strong so we will focus on that game before thinking about the next games," said Al Sabahi, who will be without defender Mohammed Al Ubaidani due to suspension.
"We want to improve and do well for the country, and it will be a good experience for the players and coaches.
"The last game is very difficult so it helps to have a strong squad with good substitutes."