Thailand's Asian Cup squad is determined not to let history repeat itself when they encounter China, who are devoid of several of their European-based stars, in the friendly match at Rajamangala National Stadium today.

The last time the Kingdom played against the Chinese in the stadium was in the Bangkok Asian Games third-place play-off match that saw the visitors run out 3-0 winners.

That was nine years ago. This time, coach Chanvit Pholchivin's men has warned the visitors that they could not expect an easy ride in the game which marks the start of their preparation for the Asian Cup in July which is co-hosted by Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam.

However, Kittiratt Na Ranong, the Thai team's manager, was under no illusion of the size of the challenge his side faced against the opponents whose current world ranking is 72nd, 47 places above the hosts.

"It's certainly a tough match when we play China, no matter what the side we face. But I believe the team will put on a high quality display and give more than 100 per cent. I hope they'll fare well and I think they'd like to see the fans show up to lend them support," Kittirat said.

Chanwit, who is in his second stint with the national team after making a U-turn on coaching V-league outfit Dong Thap earlier this year, acknowledged the side faced a difficult test against the Chinese despite the absence of well-known players such as Manchester United star Dong Fangzhou.

"There is no question that it is a stern challenge [against China]. We have only had three days together which limits us in preparation to only tactical aspects," said Chanwit.

"I'm not too worried about the result. I just want to see our strengths and weaknesses from this match. We will go on the attack. We will be aggressive to test our potential and to improve our game and tactics," said Chanwit, who will have to do it without the services of key player Datsakorn Thonglao after the Hoang Anh Gia Lai midfielder was unable to get air tickets from Vietnam.

Though China has several big time players absent, at least one familiar name, Li Tie, the former Everton player, will feature in their line-up.

Tickets are available at Bt100 and Bt200. Channel 7 will televise the match live from 6.30pm.

Meanwhile, Thailand's Under-23 side vows to take at least a point home from what appears a formality when they face group leaders North Korea in their 2008 Olympic qualifying round Group E match today.

A 1-0 loss at home to Iraq last month left elimination staring coach Prapol Pongpanich's side in the face. It is languishing in third place with four points from four matches, four away from the second and last qualifying spot from the group currently occupied by the Middle East team.

Prapol's men must win the last two matches and hope Iraq fail to claim points in their remaining fixtures which include an away tie against India if they are to progress.