KUALA LUMPUR: Croatian coach Bojan Hodak has identified reigning champions Thailand and 2022 winners Vietnam as the favourites to claim the Asean Cup, which kicks off tomorrow.
Thailand and Vietnam have both named formidable squads, while Indonesia, who are fielding a mixed team of senior and Under-22 players, could pose a serious challenge.
Malaysia, the 2010 champions, face a tougher path as many of their top stars have opted out due to club commitments.
Despite this, head coach Pau Marti Vicente's side are still expected to advance to the semi-finals from Group A.
Hodak sees Thailand and Vietnam as the top contenders but warns against underestimating Indonesia.
"In Group A, Thailand have the best squad and should reach the semi-finals," said Hodak, who is the coach of Indonesian club Persib Bandung.
"Malaysia have a decent team. Although not all of the regulars are in the squad, they will still be a force in the tournament.
Singapore and Cambodia, with their new naturalised players, will be interesting to watch."
As for Group B, Hodak gave the edge to Vietnam, though he highlighted Indonesia's potential.
"Vietnam have a strong squad. Indonesia have a young team, but some of their players are regulars in the World Cup qualifiers.
"Myanmar might cause an upset, but I don't think Laos or the Philippines will go far."
Hodak praised Thailand and Vietnam for consistently taking the Asean Cup seriously, making them perennial favourites.
"Thailand and Vietnam are always serious contenders. Indonesia have also impressed recently and will be eager to win the tournament for the first time."
The tournament opens tomorrow, with Malaysia facing Cambodia in Phnom Penh.
The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals.