Islamabad: Pakistan football team concluded their 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a spirited yet disappointing 2-1 defeat against Myanmar at the Jinnah Stadium on Tuesday.
Coached by Nolberto Solano, Pakistan displayed resilience and attacking intent, particularly in the first half, but defensive lapses in the second period proved costly. The result leaves Pakistan with two points from six matches in Group E. Pakistan began the match brightly and created the first clear opportunity midway through the opening half when captain Alamgir Ghazi unleashed a powerful long-range effort that forced a fine save from Myanmar goalkeeper Zin Nyi Nyi Aung.
Moments later, another promising move saw Ali Uzair head the ball across goal from the far post, but Shayak Dost was unable to apply the finishing touch. Despite finishing the first half on top, Pakistan suffered a setback immediately after the restart when goalkeeper Saqib Hanif failed to deal with a back pass, allowing Myanmar to take the lead. The visitors doubled their advantage around the hour mark, as Than Paing capitalized on a defensive lapse, breaking the offside trap to convert a low cross from the right.
Pakistan, however, refused to surrender and continued to press forward in search of a breakthrough. Their persistence paid off in the 90th minute when Shayak Dost rose to head home a precise cross from Tufail Shinwari, marking Pakistan’s first goal since Etzaz Hussain had scored against Afghanistan away from home.
The late goal injected renewed energy into the home side, who were reduced to ten men after Junaid Shah was forced off with an injury after all substitutions had been used. Despite a spirited finish, Pakistan were unable to find an equalizer as Myanmar held firm to secure victory.
The result sees Myanmar finish second in Group E with 12 points, behind Syria national football team, while Pakistan’s campaign ends with valuable lessons and glimpses of promise for the future.