The high-profile signing of South Korea attacking midfielder Song Chi-hoon coupled with the “prize snatch” of Cambodia goalkeeper Sou Yaty from rivals Boeung Ket could change NagaWorld’s team dynamic at the start of the second leg of the Metfone C-League campaign on Saturday.
Timely, the Sou Yaty move came hard on the heels of Naga’s dramatic 2-3 loss to Boeung Ket last Sunday as the top of the table clash was moments away from hearing the final whistle.
Naga team manager Lam Tiny took to social media to welcome Song, saying in a Facebook post the midfielder had won multiple awards in K-League challenges.
With these latest arrivals strengthening the side, Naga will hit the road to Svay Rieng for a floodlit clash with local giants Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng, who had dealt the casino-backed side a big blow in 2017 Hun Sen Cup final.
The hosts are gradually coming to grips with the harsh realities of the bans dished out to key players after their notorious brawl with the visiting Ministry of National Defence.
A good outcome is just the kind of prop Svay Rieng will be eagerly hoping for.
Boeung Ket fans might well be keener than ever before to see Chan Vathanaka back in business when the league leaders meet modestly performing Asia Europe United at the Olympic Stadium.
Local side Soltilo Angkor will host Phnom Penh Crown at the Siem Reap Stadium with the kick off set for 3pm.
Respite for Western?
The spotlight on Sunday will be on Visakha, who on the strength of their performances agaist the big boys, are shaping themselves to be serious title contenders.
Given their current form, dealing with one of the lower rung teams in Electricite du Cambodge should be a routine affair for the North Korean-dominated attacking line-up.
A small note of caution for Visakha to bear in mind though is the fact that EdC have held Boeung Ket to a goalless draw.
Western will be looking for shelter from the recent heavy downpour of goals against them – 18 in the past two matches alone – when they face Commissary of National Police.
Nationl Defense take on Angkor Tiger, a side who have often surprised teams with bigger reputations.
