Thailand to play China, Qatar ahead of Asian Cup

BANGKOK, Apr 2 (Reuters) Thailand will play friendlies against China and Qatar as part of their preparations for this year's Asian Cup.

The matches with Group C qualifiers China and Group B side Qatar had been tentatively scheduled for May 16 and June 30 respectively, an official at the Football Association of Thailand told Reuters today.

Both games will be played at Bangkok's Rajamangala Stadium.

Thailand is co-hosting the July 7-29 Asian Cup with Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. Thailand face Oman, Iraq and 2006 World Cup qualifiers Australia in Group A.

The Netherlands have already confirmed they will play a friendly with Thailand in Bangkok on June 6.

REUTERS SSC ND1546