The notoriously secretive nation are starting to emerge as a strong force in Asia having claimed regional titles at all youth levels last year whilst the senior team participated in a first World Cup for over 40 years in South Africa last summer.

North Korea frustrated Brazil in their first game, suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat, but then lost 7-0 and 3-0 to Portugal and the Ivory Coast respectively.

However, Jo is confident the experience they gained at that tournament will stand them in good stead to claim a maiden Asian Cup title in Doha.

"I can say the experience from the World Cup might help our team prepare for the Asian Cup," he said.

"We put emphasis on defence but also will attack more this time so a combination of defence and counter-attack, but it will not be too much different from the World Cup."

Much of North Korea's attacking responsibilities fall on Jong Tae-se, who has enjoyed a prolific first season in Europe having scored eight goals in 16 games for German second division side Bochum.

The 26-year-old forward has been struggling with a persistent knee injury recently but Jo is confident he will be passed fit to take his place in the side to face the UAE.

"He's just returned from his rehab," added the Korean.

"He's been injured and playing for Bochum with injections but now I think he's okay physically and technically and he's ready to play."

UAE coach Srecko Katanec has brought a young side to the tournament, no doubt with one eye on building towards qualification for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

"I am not under pressure (to win), I just want my team to play good football and even then the result will depend on many things," he said.

"You know that we have very many young players, normally they are without experience but I will give them the chance because you don't have many opportunities to play against strong teams."