December 19
The final match of the 2023 MNL Championship season took place on 18 December at Thuwunna Stadium, featuring a goalless draw between Shan United and Yangon United.
Shan United, the reigning champions, secured an unbeaten record for the entire season by tying with Yangon United in the last match. This victory marked Shan United’s third points championship and an unprecedented achievement of winning the championship for four consecutive seasons in the tournament’s history. The team had previously won the MNL scoring championship five times in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023, remaining unbeaten in the 2019, 2022, and 2023 seasons.
Both teams fielded their core players, facing challenges throughout the match that ultimately ended in a draw. Shan United focused on preventing goals, while Yangon aimed to break Shan United’s unbeaten streak. Despite efforts from both sides, the match concluded without a winner. Shan United’s unbeaten record now extends to 56 games since the 2020 season. Head coach U Han Win Aung, who has been in charge since the 2022 season, has maintained an impressive record of not losing any domestic league games under his leadership. The best player award for this match was claimed by Yangon goalkeeper Phone Thitsa Min.
Following the match, the prize-giving ceremony proceeded. Shan United’s striker, Bello, who secured the award for the most goals with 13, received a medal and a prize of K1 million. Dagon Star team, securing the 5th place, was awarded a prize of K10 million. The ISPE, clinching the 4th place, received a prize of K20 million. Hanthawady team, the third-place winner, received an individual medal and a prize of K30 million. Yangon United team, securing the second prize, received an individual medal and a prize of K40 million.
Shan United, the first prize winner, received an individual medal and a prize of K60 million, along with the championship trophy and the gold trophy for maintaining an undefeated record throughout the season. The awards were presented by Yangon Region government ministers, Myanmar Football Federation President U Zaw Zaw, and other officials. — Ko Nyi Lay/KZW
