At the pre-tournament press conference, the Group C rivals are confident of producing their best, despite the disruptions caused in their countries by political issues.

Also in the group are Korea Republic and Vietnam.

“Yes, we have a complicated political situation in our country, but this did not prevent us from preparing as best as we can for the tournament,” said Thai coach Jose Maria Parzos Mandez.

“This is not an easy group but we will do everything possible to stay in Tashkent as long as we can.”

Kyrgyzstan coach Amirzhan Mukanov said his country’s football association did its best to provide optimum training conditions ahead of the tournament.

“Of course, recent events in our country could not but affect the players,” he said. “But despite all the problems, our federation has managed to provide us with all the necessary facilities and support so we can arrive in Tashkent with the best possible frame of mind.”

For Vietnam coach Sergio Gargelli, the aim is to get into the semi-finals by finishing in the top two of the group while Korea Republic coach Lee Chang-hwan said his team have only modest expectations and are mainly in Tashkent for the experience.