Pakistan fell to a 1–0 defeat at the hands of Myanmar in their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier at Thuwunna Stadium on Tuesday, with Than Paing’s first-half goal proving decisive.
Myanmar dominated the opening half with sustained attacking pressure and were rewarded in the 41st minute when Than Paing expertly converted a set-piece opportunity just outside the penalty area. The hosts continued to control proceedings in the second half but could not add to their lead.
Pakistan, meanwhile, struggled to break through Myanmar’s defence and failed to register an equaliser. A more spirited second-half display offered glimpses of potential, but the damage had already been done in the opening 45 minutes.
Captain Abdullah Iqbal voiced his frustration after the match, admitting disappointment over the first-half performance. “We weren’t in shape, we didn’t dare to play,” he said. “I want to apologise to the fans… hopefully, we give them more joy by playing the way we did in the second half.”
Match Summary – AFC Asian Cup Qualifier:
Myanmar 1–0 Pakistan
Goal: Than Paing (41′)
Pakistan Captain: Abdullah Iqbal
Venue: Thuwunna Stadium, Yangon
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