Chanwit Pholcheewin's side will test their mettle against Kuwait, Yemen and Palestine in the first-round group stage.

At the last two editions, in Bangkok and Busan, the Kingdom produced remarkable performances, making it through to the semifinals and ending up fourth.

However, judging from the Thai team's poor record against Arab nations and the weather conditions, it will be a tough challenge for Chanwit's men.

However, Chanwit tried to look at the positive side. "At least, we know what we have to do and prepare our team accordingly in the remaining time," said Chanwit who steered his side to a seventh successive SEA Games title last year.

"Since we face Middle Eastern rivals in the first round, we will invite teams from the region to play in friendly matches. It is one way of learning more about their style."

Chanwit reckons that Kuwait, who defeated Australia on Wednesday, will be hard to beat. "I think Kuwait will be our strongest rivals. About Yemen, I am not much concerned, as we beat them in the World Cup 2006 qualifier. In the case of Palestine, we do not know much about them so we will try to get more information."

Kitinan Sanguansak

The Nation