Great Britain and Ireland captain Paul McGinley insists his side should be regarded as underdogs for this week's Vivendi Seve Trophy match against Jean Van de Velde's Continental Europe team.
McGinley has world number two Lee Westwood, Open winner Darren Clarke and the in-form Simon Dyson in his line-up for the biennial event at St Nom La Breteche in Paris.
But the Irishman said: "There is no doubt Continental Europe are the favourites and a stronger team on paper.
"We're under no illusions we're the underdogs. But we have been before and come out on top."
McGinley on team's chances
"Look at the quality and experience they have in the team, where they are in the world rankings and Race to Dubai. Their top players seem to enjoy the event and make themselves available.
"They have a French captain as well. That's going to mean a vociferous crowd. We're under no illusions we're the underdogs. But we have been before and come out on top.
"I've got a good idea of my pairings. The big decision I've faced is, do I put my best players together or do I spread them out and put the debutants with experienced players?
"I'll be running everything by the boys when practice is over. I'll be making my decisions then."
The bookies agree with McGinley's assessment about which side should be regarded as favourites.
Sky Bet make Continental Europe 4/5, with Great Britain and Ireland at Even Money.
Continental Europe captain Jean Van de Velde, meanwhile, insists his side is determined to avoid a sixth consecutive defeat in the event.
The Frenchman is hoping that Thomas Bjorn can continue the sparkling form that has netted the Dane two titles this season in his last two starts on the European Tour.
Ryder Cup stalwart Miguel Angel Jimenez is another key man for the 'home' team, and Van de Velde hopes they can inspire the inexperienced players in his side.
"We've played this match six times and Britain and Ireland have won the last five; that will be the inspiration for my team," said the Frenchman.
"I have a couple of leaders. Thomas Bjorn is in incredible form. It's his sixth Seve Trophy and he knows how many times we have lost. He doesn't like to be beaten.
"Miguel-Angel Jimenez never knows when he is beaten, and he has played in three Ryder Cups and all six Seve Trophy matches.
"I have 10 players who feel that way, too. It's a common interest. They are all champions and if there is one thing they hate more than anything, it's losing."
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