Dagon Port vs Hantharwady United on 30 January
On January 30th, the Myanmar National League will witness an intriguing clash between Dagon Port and Hantharwady United. With both teams positioned firmly within the middle of the table, this match is a crucial opportunity for each side to improve their standing and build momentum as they look to secure their aspirations for the remainder of the season. The stakes are high: a win here could propel either team into a favorable position for the upcoming stretch of matches. For Dagon Port, who have struggled to consistently string together results, this represents a chance to claw back into the upper half of the table. For Hantharwady United, they have the opportunity to assert their dominance and push towards the top places. The match will take place at the famous Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, with temperatures expected to hover around 30°C, potentially impacting the intensity of play.
Dagon Port: Tactical Approach and Current Form
In recent games, Dagon Port's form has been a tale of inconsistency. Over the last five matches, they’ve earned two wins, one draw, and two defeats. Their tactical approach is largely defined by their flexible 4-2-3-1 formation, often shifting to a more defensive 4-4-2 when under pressure. Head coach's strategy relies heavily on rapid transitions, with a focus on quick counter-attacks down the wings, utilizing their pace on the flanks. Their possession numbers are modest, averaging just 45% in recent games, but they excel in creating chances from quick breaks, often using direct balls over the top for their wingers to latch onto.
Dagon Port’s defensive setup has been the weak link in recent matches. With an average of 15.2 shots conceded per game and a high rate of turnovers in midfield, their backline remains vulnerable, particularly on set-pieces. Their pressing game is also inconsistent, often lacking coordination in high pressing situations. With 11.5 tackles per game and a 78% tackle success rate, they have the ability to disrupt possession but need to be more disciplined when pressing higher up the pitch.
Key players for Dagon Port include central midfielder and captain, Maung Maung Lwin, who has been instrumental in linking play. His 85% passing accuracy in the final third and 2.4 key passes per match are a testament to his role as the engine of their attacks. Up front, striker Zaw Thiha can be lethal on the counter, but his finishing has been erratic this season, with only 3 goals in his last 10 appearances. Injuries to both their first-choice full-backs might limit their ability to push forward from the back, but this also gives the manager the opportunity to shuffle their squad, potentially introducing more dynamic players to fill the void.
Hantharwady United: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Hantharwady United, on the other hand, have enjoyed a more stable run, with three wins and two losses in their last five outings. Their tactical setup is a more balanced 4-3-3 formation, with an emphasis on control and fluid ball circulation in midfield. The side looks to dominate possession, averaging 58% possession in recent matches, and they thrive on patient build-up play from the back. With a high pass completion rate of 84%, they are a team that will look to control the tempo and force their opponents into mistakes through sustained pressure.
Defensively, Hantharwady United has shown a strong and organized shape, conceding only 0.9 goals per game on average. Their 4-3-3 formation allows them to flood the midfield, stifling opposition attacks before they reach the final third. The full-backs, Aung Kyaw Htet and Thein Zaw, have been exceptional at providing width in attack, but also in tucking inside to close down central threats. Their pressing has been efficient with 15.3 interceptions per game, and they have a robust aerial presence, winning 60% of duels in the air.
The standout player for Hantharwady United is their playmaker, Kyaw Zin Lwin. He has been the creative spark, with 3.1 key passes per game and an impressive 89% passing accuracy. His ability to pick apart defenses with vision and precision will be pivotal. However, they do face a blow with their top scorer, Han Zaw Min, suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. The absence of Han Zaw Min could limit their attacking edge, but with their midfield depth, they are more than capable of adapting to the challenge.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The history between these two sides has seen a mixed bag of results, with Dagon Port having the upper hand in recent encounters. In the last five meetings, Dagon Port has won three times, while Hantharwady has triumphed once, with one draw. The most recent match, back in August 2025, ended in a 2-1 win for Dagon Port, who were clinical in taking their chances on the break. Historically, these teams have been evenly matched, with no team having a clear psychological advantage. Both squads will know that a victory here is more than just a statistical boost—it could set the tone for the rest of their season, especially with playoff positions in the balance.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most crucial battles in this match will take place in midfield, where the creative hub of Kyaw Zin Lwin faces the combative Maung Maung Lwin. This matchup will determine who controls the tempo of the game. If Dagon Port can disrupt Hantharwady's build-up early on with a high press, they might force mistakes that lead to counter-attacks. However, if Hantharwady can dictate possession, it will be a long afternoon for Dagon Port, whose defense has often struggled against sides that control the ball in the final third.
The full-back battle also promises to be an intriguing one. With Dagon Port's full-backs likely missing due to injury, the substitute options will need to be at their best to cope with the attacking threat from Hantharwady’s wingers. Aung Kyaw Htet and Thein Zaw will look to exploit the space in behind Dagon Port’s defense, and with their ability to link up play with the midfield, they could be the key to unlocking their opponent's backline. Dagon Port’s vulnerability to wide play could provide Hantharwady with the perfect opportunity to control the match.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This match will likely be decided by who can impose their tactical style early. If Dagon Port can press high and break quickly, they will create significant problems for Hantharwady, who will look to dominate possession and patiently build attacks. The absence of Han Zaw Min for Hantharwady could prove critical in this regard, as Dagon Port will have to be disciplined in their defensive shape, preventing their opponents from finding rhythm in the attacking third.
Given the current form and the lack of their key player, Hantharwady may struggle to break down Dagon Port’s defense. However, the latter’s shaky defense could also open up opportunities for Hantharwady’s wingers. Expect a tightly contested match with a narrow win for either side. A 2-1 victory for Dagon Port seems most likely, with the match likely to see both teams scoring but struggling to capitalize on all their chances. The over/under goals total might hover around 2.5 goals, with a possibility of a slight edge for Dagon Port on the handicap.
Final Thoughts
This is a match between two teams whose tactical approaches could not be more contrasting: the high pressing and counter-attacking style of Dagon Port versus the possession-based control of Hantharwady United. The key to victory will lie in the midfield battle and whether Dagon Port can disrupt Hantharwady's fluid build-up play. The loss of Han Zaw Min will hurt Hantharwady's attacking force, but their collective unit could still manage to produce a result. Ultimately, this match will answer whether Dagon Port can rise above their defensive frailties and make a statement, or whether Hantharwady's midfield control will see them through to victory.
