Match Preview: Cambodia Vs Sri Lanka

The international break is upon us and for the Cambodian national team it’s Asia Cup Qualifying with Sri Lanka standing in the way. It’s been a disappointing time for the national team with Felix taking over from Honda after the SEA Games and the expectations of progression. However we’ve seen much the same with the national team delivering very little hope to us fans.

It’s time to deliver…..

Over the years we’ve witnessed both triumph and embarrassment when it comes to the national team. Defeat to Sri Lanka and an exit from the Asia Cup will be nothing short of disaster and going into next month’s AFF Championship a confidence boost is needed. Since Felix took charge what we’ve seen is a more cohesive unit, a team with a style of play but lacking a cutting edge that can only be found with time. All the pieces of the jigsaw are in front of Felix; he just needs to put them together.

Sri Lanka are no pushovers ….

Our opponents Sri Lanka are no pushovers but no world beaters either and on paper there should be only one winner here. The key will be the first leg away from home. If Cambodia can come through this unscathed and with a goal then I would fancy them to win the second leg in Phnom Penh with a big crowd there to cheer them on.

It’s rumored that Sri Lanka are taking no chances and have ordered 15 players from overseas to attend the game with their Federation footing the bill for travel. The Sri Lankans can smell blood and they fancy causing upset.

The fans want to see progression…..

For us fans we’re not expecting to win the Asia Cup or any major tournament in the coming months. However we do expect, and want, to see our national team playing a Khmer style of football that is competitive and shows a clear direction of travel for football both domestically and on the international stage.

Prediction

Sri Lanka 2-0 Cambodia

Cambodia 3-2 Sri Lanka