Cambodia, with its slogan “One for All, All for One”, face Myanmar, Vietnam, Singapore and Philippines in Group B.

As well as days of intense physical training in Vietnam, coach Yoshioka intends to play five friendly matches against local teams.

Of the 20 players in the national squad, 16 hail from the junior programme of Metfone C-League club Preah Khan Reach. Midfielder Hoy Phallin has already made a league appearance for PKR’s senior team this season, while Hel Udom is the reserve goalkeeper for Chhlam Samuth.

Following July’s regional tournament, Southeast Asian nations will take part in September qualifiers for the 2012 AFC Championships. Cambodia will play against Japan, Vietnam, Chinese Taipei, South Korea and hosts Laos in Group F.

Iraq is set to host Group A matches, while Group B will play out in Kuwait, and Group D in Nepal. If no countries step forward as hosts for the remaining three groups, neutral venues will be chosen.

KhmerSportNews - April 21, 2011