YANGON: Pakistan’s ambition to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup suffered another significant blow on Tuesday as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Myanmar at the Thuwunna Stadium. This result leaves Stephen Constantine’s side without a win or a point after two matches in Group ‘L’ of the final qualifying round, pushing them further from their ultimate goal.
The loss sets up a challenging double-header against Afghanistan in October. Afghanistan, who were due to play Syria later on Tuesday, will undoubtedly be encouraged by Pakistan’s lackluster performance, particularly a toothless first half against Myanmar.
Pakistan skipper Abdullah Iqbal expressed profound disappointment following the match, especially regarding the team’s initial display. “To be honest right now, I’m very disappointed, especially with the first half. I think we did not live up to the expectations, especially the defensive play that we’ve shown in the first half,” Iqbal stated during the post-match presentation. He admitted the team lacked shape and confidence in the opening 45 minutes, contrasting it sharply with a much-improved second half.
“We weren’t in the shape. We didn’t dare to play really but in the second half we showed what we are capable of and that’s what we should show more because that’s what our fans deserve,” he added. Iqbal offered an apology to the fans for the first-half performance, hoping they saw the potential displayed later in the game.
Having suffered a defeat to Syria in their opening match, Constantine opted for a defensive strategy against Myanmar. However, this left frontman Fareedullah isolated upfront, allowing Myanmar to dominate the midfield. The hosts effectively controlled possession and capitalized on their advantage just before halftime.
Myanmar’s breakthrough came in the 41st minute courtesy of striker Than Paing. Following a free-kick delivered into the box by Mg Mg Lwin, the ball was headed into the danger area and met on the volley by Soe Moe Kya. Although goalkeeper Yousuf Butt managed to tip the shot onto the post, the rebound landed perfectly for Paing, who tapped it in from the goalline.
Pakistan emerged for the second half with a renewed vigor, and Constantine made tactical adjustments in an effort to find an equalizer. However, against a confident Myanmar side, buoyed by their opening victory against Afghanistan, creating clear-cut scoring opportunities proved to be a formidable challenge for the visitors.
The match was originally scheduled to be played in Pakistan. However, due to the Pakistan Football Federation’s focus on organizing its long-awaited elections, the fixtures were swapped with Myanmar. Pakistan is now slated to play their home fixture against Myanmar in March of next year.
