At the last edition of the tournament, the Young Lions suffered a 0-7 drubbing at the hands of Causeway rivals Malaysia. That was Singapore’s heaviest defeat at the Games since the competition became an age-group affair in 2001.
Earlier this year, the Young Lions were left out of the provisional list for the Games. But the team appealed successfully, playing out two closed-door friendlies, with a win and a draw, to strengthen the case for their inclusion.
Late changes to the Young Lions’ Games scheduling have not been ideal for preparations.
The team were originally drawn in Group C to face champions Indonesia, Myanmar and the Philippines in Chiang Mai. However, after the withdrawal of Cambodia, Firdaus’ men were shifted to Group A.
Group B comprises Malaysia, Vietnam and Laos.
The three group winners and the best second-placed team will advance to the semi-finals.