THE 2026 AFC U23 Championship Group C first-day match was held at the Thuwunna Youth Training Centre in Yangon yesterday, where Myanmar and Kuwait played to a goalless draw.
Myanmar, currently in Group C alongside Japan, Kuwait and Afghanistan, earned a point against Kuwait, but the team will need stronger performances in the remaining two group matches to advance. While Myanmar applied pressure on Kuwait throughout the game, shortcomings in finishing and attacking execution prevented them from scoring.
Key players Zaw Win Thein and Okka Naing were unavailable due to injuries, so Myanmar fielded Akar Kyaw, Swan Htet, Than Toe Aung, Zwe Mann Thar, and Min Maw Oo in the starting lineup. Despite controlling the game and pressuring the Kuwaiti defence, Myanmar was unable to convert chances, and Kuwait’s counterattacks in the first half were contained by solid defensive play and goalkeeping. Substitutions in the second half increased attacking intensity, but neither side was able to find the net, leaving the match at a 0-0 draw.
Myanmar will face Japan in their second group match on 6 September. — Ko Nyi Lay/KZL
