A 1-0 away victory in the first leg last week put Prapol Pongpanich's side in the driving seat to qualify for the group-stage second round. Thailand need only a draw from the home leg to confirm their berth. However, the hosts are

well aware of the away goal rule, which might send them packing should they suffer a 2-1 loss or get beaten by more than a two-goal margin.

Prapol, the national team coach, could draw some comfort from the news that four Turkmen first-team players did not travel with the squad. However, he refused to underestimate the visitors' strength and told his side that nothing should be taken for granted.

"We'll certainly not overlook them. Since we returned home, we have had no time to rest. I'm quite sure the boys will come good tomorrow," said Prapol.

"We will play the 3-5-2 formation. I think our performance will improve as the pitch condition in Supachalasai stadium is far better than what was there in Turkmenistan. The pitch condition will help us control and pass the ball more easily. I'm sure we will score more goals tomorrow."

Kasem Jariyawatwong, the team manager, believed there was nothing that could stop Thailand progressing to the next round. He said the team would find its target at least twice against the visitors.

"In the first leg, we did not play well in the midfield so we'll correct that to make our play more consistent. We'll play to a plan and step up our attacks as the game progresses.

"Since the game is at home we have the advantage in every respect. We are fully prepared for the match and we should claim a win without any trouble. Nothing can thwart our efforts to make it through the second qualifying round. The lads are very determined," said Kasem, who had prayed to Prince Chumporn Ket Udomsak, one of King Chulalongkorn's sons, for success in today's match.

Tickets priced at Bt50 and Bt100 will go on sale at the venue. The maximum number of tickets each fan can buy is five. Channel 7 will televise the game live from 7pm.