19 September
MYANMAR lost to Thailand by 0-4 in the opening match of Group K for the Asian Foot-ball Confederation (AFC) U-16 Championship 2020 Qualifiers yesterday at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon.
Led by head coach U Min Thu, team Myanmar lined up with goalkeeper Han Thar Lin, Htoo Myat Khant, Kaung Htet Paing, Yan Naing Tun, Min Khant Thu, Kaung Khant Kyaw, Wai Yan Lin Thu, Kaung Zaw Lin, Zin Myo Aung, Aung Thiha Paing, and Captain Kyaw Min Khant.
Both teams played energetically from the start, but the Thai strikers were too strong for Myanmar defenders to effectively block the ball.
Even in the early minutes of the first half, Thailand made counter attacks and Myanmar lost some possessions. At the 6-minute mark, Thailand got the opening goal, which was scored by striker Wongpanya over an assist from his team-mates.
The Myanmar strikers tried to make early minute goals, but Thailand’s defense line and keeper were too strong and were able to clear the ball and make several saves.
Thailand landed their second goal at 11 minutes. It was scored by striker Wongpanya, who converted a slow pass, which Myanmar defenders weren’t quick enough to stop.
Thailand netted their third goal at 27 minutes. It was scored by midfielder Khanyok off a long pass, with the support of his teammate. The first half ended with a score of 3-0 in fa-vor of team Thailand.
In the second half, Myanmar changed tactics, but at the 62-minute mark, Thailand got a corner kick, with captain Kaeeroj scoring the fourth goal for Thailand, with an assist from midfielder Boonlha. After the tally reached, 4-0 Myanmar opened their attack, but due to lack of coordination between midfielders and strikers, the team failed to score consolation goals. Thailand defenders held strong till the match ended to maintain their four-goal lead.
Myanmar will next play South Korea at the same venue on 20 September.
Lynn Thit (Tgi)
