Hosts Vietnam Police lost 0-1 to rivals Royal Thai Police in their opener at the ASEAN Police Soccer Open Tournament – Eximbank Cup 2012, which kicked off Wednesday in Ho Chi Minh City.

In an earlier game at Thong Nhat Stadium the same day, the Cambodian Interior Ministry beat the Lao Ministry of Public Security 2-1 to temporarily top the table.

The Cambodian Interior Ministry takes on the Australian Federal Police on Friday, while the hosts play their Lao opponents.

The tournament is being held to encourage exchange and cooperation among the public security forces of the participating countries.

The five participants compete in round robin games for a trophy and a VND 150 million (US$7,200) cash prize.

Runners-up and third-place finalists will be presented with VND 100 million ($4,800) and 60 million ($2,800), respectively.

Two consolation prizes and many individual honors will also be awarded. The tourney concludes next Thursday.