PHNOM PENH: Thailand, it appears, are too strong for Malaysia in Sea Games football.
So, what else can Malaysia do to tilt the balance?
Relying on the hot weather in Phnom Penh? Nope, no difference to Thailand.
Looking to the bad pitch at the Prince Stadium to stop Thailand? Nope, it's just as bad for Malaysia.
Coach E. Elavarasan said: "We can't use the weather or the pitch as an excuse. The other teams are also playing under the same sun and on the same field."
Like it or not, the national Under-22 team will have to wear the underdog tag when facing 16-time champions Thailand tomorrow.
After beating lowly Laos 5-1 in their first group game on Wednesday, the Malaysians will really have to raise their game against Thailand to avoid defeat.
"I think Vietnam and Thailand are Group B favourites," said Elavarasan matter of factly.
"We're only focusing on one game at a time."
Malaysia are second in Group B, sharing three points each with third place Thailand e (two-goal difference).
Defending champions Vietnam have six points from two matches. They beat Laos 2-0 and Singapore 3-1.
After the Thailand game, Malaysia will play Vietnam on Monday before their final group game against Singapore three days later.