Myanmar Secures Victory Over Pakistan in AFC Asian Cup Qualifier

YANGON: A first-half goal from seasoned forward Than Paing propelled Myanmar to a 1-0 triumph against Pakistan in their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier match. The contest unfolded at Thuwunna Stadium on Tuesday.

The match began with contrasting strategies, as the home team adopted an aggressive stance, consistently seeking to generate scoring opportunities against a defensively oriented Pakistan side.

Myanmar’s endeavors were rewarded in the 41st minute when a free-kick, awarded just outside the penalty area, was expertly converted by Than Paing.

Paing’s goal injected momentum into the home side, who relentlessly pursued a second goal but were ultimately unsuccessful.

Pakistan, conversely, struggled to penetrate Myanmar’s defensive line and were unable to produce an equalizing goal before the match concluded.

Abdullah Iqbal, who led Pakistan as captain in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifier, voiced his disappointment regarding their showing, particularly in the first half. He emphasized that the team’s supporters deserve improved results.

During the post-match presentation, Iqbal conceded, “I am very disappointed, especially concerning our performance in the first half. I don’t believe we fulfilled expectations, most notably our defensive execution.”

He added, “We lacked cohesion and hesitated to play with conviction. However, in the second half, we demonstrated our capabilities, which is what we must consistently exhibit, as that is what our fans deserve.”

“I want to convey my apologies to the fans for the first half. I hope they acknowledge the potential we revealed in the second half and that we can provide them with more joy by playing in that manner.”