THE Myanmar national football team defeated the Afghanistan national football team by two goals to one in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification Group E match held at the Thuwunna Youth Training Centre on 26 March.

Before the match, players and officials observed a one-minute silence in memory of former Myanmar national team player and coach U Tin Myint Aung, who passed away on 23 March at the age of 59.

Although Afghanistan were scheduled to host the match, they were unable to stage it at home. The game was initially planned to be played in Qatar but was later held in Myanmar due to the situation in some Middle Eastern countries. As a result, Myanmar played both legs at home and won both matches.

Afghanistan took the lead in 10 minutes through Omid following a mistake by Myanmar goalkeeper San Satt Naing. Myanmar pushed forward for an equalizer, and striker Than Paing scored just before half-time. Substitute Khun Kyaw Zin Hein netted the winning goal in 74 minutes.

After five matches, Myanmar have nine points, while Afghanistan have two points. Myanmar will play their final group match against the Pakistan national football team away on 31 March. — Ko Nyi Lay/KZL