MYANMAR EDGE INDONESIA FOR THIRD GRAND ROYAL CHALLENGE CUP CROWN

The Myanmar Under-23 team won the first title in the Grand Royal Challenge Cup in 2005 before the Myanmar national team took the second title the year after.

The competition was not held in 2007.

Indonesia’s hope of vanquishing Myanmar in front of their home fans as revenge for past defeats (at the Merdeka Tournament in Kuala Lumpur two years ago and also in the group stage of the current tournament last week) was dashed by the wily Myat Min.

Myat Min, who turned 26-years-old last May, switched on the magic in either half of an exhilarating encounter to score in the sixth and 63rd minute for the win in the match that was witnessed by more than 20,000 fans.

Indonesian keeper Markus Harison was just a tad off form as he failed to deny the headers from Myat Min as Myanmar scored an own goal off Moe Win in the 15th minute for the final scoreline.

Buoyed by the presence of their home fans, Myanmar gave a spirited performance as Myat Min controlled the rhythm of the game to frustrate the Indonesian midfield.

Indonesia seem to be under pressure for much of the exchange and their failure to dictate terms saw them easily losing possession.

With the defeat, Myanmar have stretched their record against Indonesia to 15 wins, seven draws and 13 defeats in 35 matches.

With the crown in hand, Myanmar also won the USD 15,000 prize money while Indonesia took home USD 7,500 as runners-up.