Misbun Sidek believes the upcoming Badminton Asia Team Championship will not be easy for the Malaysia men's team.
The men's team was drawn in Group C alongside with Chinese Taipei, Thailand and Myanmar, and the national men's singles head coach warned his shuttlers not to take their group opponents lightly.
"Although they are not household names [in badminton], it is important that we do not underestimate them," he told Astro Arena.
"The likes of Thailand and Chinese Taipei are among the most improved nations in recent years."
Misbun also targeted for his charges to emerge as Group C winners before focusing on getting to the last four, where the semi-finalists will secure their spots at this year's Thomas and Uber Cup.
"I hope so, but what's important is the level of performance we want to show," he added.
"When you play well, good results will naturally follow."
Meanwhile, Misbun's women's singles counterpart, Tey Seu Bock, suggested Thailand are the biggest obstacle in Group Y, which also consists of Vietnam and the Philippines, of the women's event.
"If we want to be in a comfortable position, we must beat Thailand, but it will not be easy," said Tey.
"On paper, they are stronger than us, so we have to try hard to win, and if we succeed, our chances of reaching the semi-finals will be brighter."
The 2018 Badminton Asia Team Championship will take place from February 6 to 11 in Alor Setar, Kedah.
Seng Foo Lee
Wed Jan 24 2018
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