Thailand U-23 head coach Zoran Jankovic believes that the friendlies in M-150 Cup would be a great chance for his side to learn from stronger teams like Japan and North Korea.
“It is a tough draw for our team, but it should be a good test for the team because we are in the same group with Japan and North Korea for the AFC U23 tournament as well. It will help us learn more about these two sides,” he said, as quoted by Bangkok Post.
“Japan are Asia’s number one team and no one can deny this fact. The game with Japan will help us gauge our true standing in the continent.
“It is very important that we keep improving and try to do our best in this tournament.”
Thailand U23 team have been drawn to face Japan and North Korea in the first round the six-nation tournament, which will be held at Buriram United’s I-Mobile Stadium from 9 to 15 December.
The other three countries, including Uzbekistan, Myanmar, and Vietnam, were placed in Group B.