IN the opening match of the 2024-2025 AFC Champions League group stage, Myanmar’s Shan United suffered a 4-3 defeat against Indonesia’s Makassar at an away venue.

Having previously lost to Vietnam’s Thanh Hoa in their opening match, Shan United aimed to secure points in this game. However, despite their efforts, they conceded a late goal that sealed their fate as the final whistle approached.

In the squad, Shan United featured only one foreign player, striker Rintaro, alongside local players. The team managed to score three goals in the latter part of the match, but a late goal from Makassar led to their loss. Makassar’s goals came from Nammin in 33 minutes, Neto in 36 minutes, Faul in 49 minutes, and Rahaman in the 90+2 minute. Shan United’s goals were scored by Rintaro in the 45+2 minute, Machaki in 56 minutes, and Barkayo in 67 minutes.

Following this match, Makassar accumulated four points from two games, while Shan United remained without points after losing both of their matches. Shan United is set to face Malaysian club Tiran Ganu at home on 8 January as their next group-stage fixture. — Ko Nyi Lay/KZL