The Socceroos have been touted as one of the favourites to capture the trophy at the first attempt.

But, on the eve of their first Group A game against Oman in Bangkok, Arnold struck down any thoughts of arrogance.

"It is definitely not arrogance, it is confidence," he said. "If you come here and don't have a goal to be successful then you are probably coming here for the wrong reasons.

"It is a huge step coming here and playing here. It is a massive competition, there is a lot of prestige which goes with the Asian Cup and it is watched by millions of people.

"We have come off the back of a World Cup where we performed well and because we were ranked number one that is where the favouritism tag comes from.

"I have a huge amount of belief in my players."

Probably the biggest concern for Arnold is how the players will be able to cope playing in the hot and humid conditions of South East Asia.

With the majority of the squad used to playing in European climes, there are fears they will be unable to deal with often oppressive heat, especially towards the end of games when players start to tire.

"We had a very good two weeks in Singapore where we trained very hard, acclimatising to the heat. We are about 75% acclimatised but I am very happy.

"Compared to the conditions in Singapore it is better for us here. There the heat was extreme as was the humidity and that was the whole reason we went there for two weeks."

Arnold has the luxury of a fully fit squad to choose from with the likes of Kewell and Cahill both showing no concerns after returning from long-term injuries.

Oman coach Gabriel Calderon insists he and his players have not been caught up in the wave of hype that has surrounded the Australian team.

The former Argentina striker is hoping to take Oman to their best AFC Asian Cup finish yet after they qualified for the finals for only the second time in their history.

"The match is nothing special," said Calderon. "The biggest problem for us is that Australia are physically strong as well as having good technical ability and good organisation.

"We are not nervous. This game is probably the easiest for Oman as there is no pressure on us.

"Afterwards it will be difficult for us because Thailand and Iraq will also be wanting to qualify but against Australia there will be no pressure."