MNL League Cup: Rakhine United advance to quarterfinals as Group C winner
IN the final Group C match of the 2025 MNL League Cup, Rakhine United faced ISPE FC on 15 June at the Thuwunna Youth Training Centre, with the contest ending in a 2-2 draw.
The result was enough for Rakhine United to advance to the quarterfinals as a group winner. They finished level on points with Hanthawady United but edged ahead on goal difference. ISPE FC, who would have needed a win to qualify for the next round were eliminated despite a strong effort.
ISPE FC fielded a full-strength squad including Zin Ye Naung, Khine Ye Win, Win Pyae Maung and Saw Sae Kapaw Say. Rakhine United also played most of their regular starters. Needing a must-win result, ISPE went on the offensive from the start and in the 39th minute Win Pyae Maung gave them the lead. They went into halftime 1-0 ahead.
Rakhine United responded strongly in the second half, with Aung Hlaing Win equalizing in the 48th minute, followed by a go-ahead goal from Than Kyaw Htay in the 57th minute. ISPE managed to level the score with a penalty by Khine Ye Win in the 64th minute.
At the conclusion of Group C, both Rakhine United and Hanthawady United had eight points, but Rakhine took the top spot on goal difference, with Hanthawady finishing second. ISPE FC and Chinland FC ended with five points each and were eliminated, while Glory Goal FC exited the group stage without earning a point.
The quarterfinals will be held on 18 and 19 June. On 18 June, Myawady FC will face defending champions Shan United at Thuwunna Youth Training Centre, while Dagon Port FC take on Yadanabon FC at Yangon United Sport Complex. On 19 June, Yangon United will play Hanthawady United at Thuwunna Youth Training Centre, and Rakhine United will meet Ayeyawady United at Yangon United Sport Complex. — Shine Htet Zaw/KZL
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