The Central Asians came close to capturing the title in Saudi Arabia two years ago but lost to the UAE in the final and consequently are still searching for their first continental silverware.

Desperate to go one better in Zibo this month, Uzbekistan have prepared well for the tournament having held a training camp in Austria in July before taking part in a series of friendly matches.

They produced a confidence-inspiring performance in their final preparation match last week with a 7-0 defeat of Uzbekistan League side Lokomotive.

Key forward Sardor Rashidov scored a hat-trick in that game and much will be expected of him to score the goals and send Uzbekistan through to the knockout stage.

However, they face a difficult challenge in their opening Group B game against DPR Korea, who lifted the AFC U-19 Championship trophy for the second time in their history in 2006 with some players from that side having gone on to help the senior national team secure their place at the World Cup in South Africa.

And though Kabaev was keen to stress it is too early to determine who will be title contenders at the tournament, he is pleased with the strength across all areas of his own team.

“I don’t see any weak points in our side,” he said.

“I believe in this team and I believe they are all strong.

“We will see after the first game how our players are compared to other teams. It is too early to say anything about the abilities of other teams and the first match will show more information.

“This tournament is very important to our team. We are here to do well and to secure a place in the FIFA under 20 World Cup finals.”

DPR Korea are hoping to replicate their run to the title in India four years ago when they secured a 5-3 win on penalties in the final against Japan following a 1-1 draw.

Yun Jong-su’s side looked impressive during qualifying for this tournament as they finished second in Group G with their only defeat coming against hosts China and they will be hoping to maintain their momentum in Zibo.