In an exhilarating display, Phnom Penh Crown FC has set this season’s record in the Cambodian Premier League, scoring ten goals in a single match.
Their rout of Sihanoukville-based Life FC not only solidifies their position at the top of the league standings but also extends their unbeaten streak, much to the delight of their fans.
However, the round will likely be remembered not for Crown’s heroics, but rather for its controversies, as Visakha hosted Tiffy Army FC. The September 28 match saw tensions escalate due to questionable officiating.
Visakha took an early lead with a goal from forward Tesuaki Misawa in the 48th minute. But the match took a turn when referee Khin Ouseyha awarded a dubious penalty to Visakha in the 64th minute, claiming a handball by Tiffy Army defender Yue Safy, despite protests.
The penalty decision ignited heated protests from the Tiffy players, leading to a red card for their coach, Phea Sopheaktra, after he confronted the referee. Amidst the chaos, Visakha's Ramon de Andrades Souza converted the penalty, levelling the score at 1-1.
The match continued to unravel for the visitors, as further disciplinary actions saw Up Kamol and Choeun Nacha receive red cards for dissent and inappropriate language towards the referee.
With a dwindling squad, the team struggled under pressure and conceded two more goals, both from Ramon de Andrades Souza, before the final whistle blew with a score of 3-1 in favour of Visakha.
Following the match, the Cambodian Military Football Federation lodged an official complaint against referee Khin Ouseyha and a Visakha assistant coach, alleging racial discrimination towards their player, Josemar Balanga Agostinho. The federation expressed their outrage over the unjust officiating and the treatment of their players.
In a statement, they declared, “The incidents of unfair treatment during the match have been officially reported to the Cambodian Football Federation and the CPL, as we seek justice for our players."
The fallout from the match has created a buzz among fans, who are eagerly awaiting the actions of the national football federation regarding the officiating and allegations of discrimination.
In a rapid response, the CPL announced that they would conduct a thorough internal investigation into the incident and hold discussions with the federation to ensure a swift resolution.
As tensions continue to simmer, Phnom Penh Crown bounced back with a stunning 10-0 victory against provincial rivals Life FC. Rafael Andres Nieto Rondon scored four goals, showcasing the team's high level of talent and determination.
With six wins under their belt, Crown remains at the top of the league standings with 18 points, closely followed by Visakha and Angkor Tiger, both sitting at 15. The drama both on and off the pitch continues to captivate Cambodian football fans as the season unfolds.