The hosts were drawn in Group A alongside Chinese Taipei, Indonesia and Lebanon in the 16-nation competition which will be played in Tashkent from May 23 to 30.

“The draw is relatively easier for us but I believe we have the ability to win the title for the first time,” the Brazilian tactician told the-afc.com after the draw.

“We are having a systematic approach to the Finals. We had several training camps and played more than a dozen friendlies.

“We will travel to Thailand next month and will play in a four-nation tournament involving Thailand, Iran and Argentina,” said the former Japan futsal coach who was instrumental in breaking Iran’s supremacy in 2006 and handing Japan the crown.

“I have confidence on my team and I think the time has come for Uzbekistan to show their prowess in futsal.”