MND’s Thong Udom kicks past Kirivong’s Chaing Sophal during their league match on April 9.

National Defence Ministry need to quickly restore some face after losing 3-0 to Build Bright United last Saturday. In their first leg encounter with Kirivong, the Army edged the Takeo team 1-0 via a header from defender Thong Udom.

Today’s 3pm kickoff at Olympic Stadium should yield a fiercely fought contest between two sides, with a resurgent Kirivong having taken revenge on National Police Commissary last Sunday with a 3-2 reversal of the first leg. Army defenders Pheak Rady and Khek Khemarin should be all the wiser now after allowing opponents free access to the top of the box on numerous occasions.

However, their situation would be vastly improved if their goal scoring defender and captain Thong Udom recovers in time from a leg injury.  

MND’s Phoung Soksana and Plong Chanthou are as ever the key men up front for coach Op Sam An, while midfielders Seung Chanvanno and Chhin Chhoeun are reliable supply lines.

Kirivong, meanwhile, will go all out for the three points today to lift them over BBU and into fifth. Centre half Heng Kimhong is a rising star and is establishing an notable link with Nigerian striker Nelson Oladiji.

Besides national team defender In Vichheka, who plays as a forward for his domestic club, midfielders Chaing Sophal and Mam Sophal also show promise to pressurise the Army defence. Left winger Ek Vannak has returned to his former side after spending more than one season with Naga Corp.