“Our goal is to have a strong presence,” said Hossein. “Our top priority is to secure a spot in the World Cup. Defending our title and repeating our success from the previous edition in Thailand is another key objective for us.

“We will take the tournament step by step, we have six crucial games ahead, and each one is of great importance. Our aim is to deliver a high-quality performance and showcase the team’s capabilities against Indonesia.”

Indonesia head coach Ida Bagus Mahayasa knows it will be a tall order against the reigning champions but is determined to guide his team to a good showing.

“We know we’re up against teams with World Cup pedigree, but we refuse to be underestimated,” said Ida. “We’ll give everything we have to match them and keep battling until the final whistle."

The other game in Group C will see two-time champions United Arab Emirates face Afghanistan with head coach Victor Vasques, despite his confidence in his players, warning them not to underestimate the Central Asian side.

“It’s one of the best pre-competition preparations we had,” said Vasques. “We reached this competition at our best level so far."

“The first target is to secure a place in (FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup) Seychelles, after this we know we have the quality and ambition to reach as far as possible.

“It’s very difficult to analyse Afghanistan as their last official match was in 2023. We will focus on our game model and adjust according to the demands of the game and find solutions to the problems that arise.”

Venue: Jomtien Beach Arena (Pattaya)

Kick-off: Friday, 15:30 (UTC+7)

Venue: Jomtien Beach Arena (Pattaya)

Kick-off: Friday, 18:30 (UTC+7)