Myanmar need only point from their final Group A fixture against the already eliminated Iran at Thuwunna Stadium on October 13 to qualify for the quarter-finals of the AFC U-19 for the first time in nearly 40 years.
The game will begin at 6.30, following a Group C clash between China and Vietnam.
Myanmar are in this position after an emphatic 3-0 victory against neighbours Thailand in front of nearly 25,000 who packed into the Thuwunna Stadium, Yangon on October 11.
Iran who were originally favourites to qualify from Group A have yet to record a victory in the tournament.
“Even though Iran have zero points, they are a very strong side and my players know that, but I don’t believe in playing for a draw, we will play our own strategy and we must go there searching for three points,” said Gerd Friedrich, Myanmar’s German coach.
“I may have to think about some changes, Myo Ko Tun may be injured and that is the first problem,” said Friedrich who hinted he might consider introducing some taller players to combat the strong Iranian team.
“We don’t have enough quality in depth, I have 23 players in my squad but I maybe have 16 I can really choose from.”
Even if Myamnar lose the tie 1-0, they should still progress due to their win against Thailand and their currently superior goal-difference to Yemen. Otherwise it will down to be further mathematics to decide qualification, depending on the result of the Yemen and Thailand tie to be played at Wunna Theidki Stadium in Nay Pyi Taw.
