Teams prepared for U-17 tourney

MEDAN, North Sumatra: The Thai soccer squad will only seek a tie in its first match against host Indonesia during the opening match of Group B of the U-17 Southeast Asian Cup which is due to start at the Teladan Stadium here on Tuesday.

"We are looking for a 1-1 result against Indonesia. My team can't afford to set a higher target because we can't underestimate the opponents," Thai coach Withaya Laohakol told a press conference.

"My players are not really ready to play here mentally. It could be a real problem for my boys. Especially considering the fact that we have only had one month of preparation," he added.

Withaya admitted that it was his first experience in bringing a squad to such a regional event.

Meanwhile, Laotian coach Veun Savanh was optimistic about his team's chances in the tournament.

"We are not a weak team and we will do our best," he told the conference.

Group B consists of hosts Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, the Philippines and Thailand. Qualifying matches will run until Feb. 24. -- JP