The tournament is divided into two groups of four, with the top two from each section qualifying for the semi-finals.

 Teppitak Junsutep, president of the Senior Football Player's association, said seven teams from Asia - South Korea, Japan, Iran, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Taiwan, Australia, and host Thailand - and Germany, the only side from Europe in the event, have confirmed their participation. The organisers are yet to hear from Brazil, the eighth team in the competition.

"It will be surely one of the classic tournaments. It will be a nice way to celebrate His Majesty the King's 80th birthday," Teppitak said.

 It will be the second time that Thailand has staged the tournament.

 Kaltz, a member of Germany's 1980 side which won the European championship, and his band of ageing stars will undoubtedly be the centre of attraction.

 Coach of the Thai team, Cherdsak Chaiyabutr, is confident that his side will perform well in the tournament. "There is no chance of us losing in the first round given the state of our preparations," Cherdsak said.

 Most of Thai team are former national players. They will be led by Piyapong Piew-on, Vilas Nomjarean, and Viroj Ploog-Jai.

 Sonthaya Khunpluem, the Mayor of Chon Buri, said the province was all set host the event. "We have improved the infrastructure at the two venues up to international standard. There are more than 40,000 hotel rooms in the province and that is sufficient to accommodate not only the players but also the fans," Sonthaya said.

Teerapot Taweewanabul

The Nation