Late winner gives Myanmar 1-0 win against Nepal

KATHMANDU: Nepal conceded a 1-0 defeat against Myanmar in its second international friendly match at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon on Monday.

Win Naing scored the only goal of the match in the 86th minute after a beautiful counter-attack to give Myanmar victory in its rain-soaked home ground.

The first match of the international friendly between the two sides had ended in a goalless draw on Friday.

Nepal had plenty of opportunities in the first half but failed to make them count. Anjan Bista and Awas Lamichhane could not take advantage of the opportunities. Nepal also missed easy chances in the second half. Gillespie Jung Karki passed through Myanmar’s defense in the 66th minute, but his shot was saved by Myanmar’s goalie.

In the 73rd minute, Nepal’s goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong made a good save. A few minutes later, Hisub Thapalia, who replaced Anjan Bista in the second half, was denied by Myanmar’s goalkeeper.

Myanmar also created some opportunities but were blunt in front of the goal.

Manish Dangi had a chance to score in the 84th minute of the match. He superbly collected Dinesh Henjan’s pass but hit the crossbar. Before Nepali defenders could return to their positions, Myanmar made a superb attack and scored the winner in the 86th minute. Although the linesman had raised the flag in the buildup, the referee awarded the goal, drawing a furious reaction from Nepali players.

This was Dinesh Henjan’s first match in the national colors.