Cambodia football boss quits after SEA games defeat

“I would like to announce my resignation as the president of the Football Federation of Cambodia as promised and to show a sense of responsibility,” Sokha wrote on social media after Cambodia lost 2-0 to Myanmar on Sunday.

As the hosts, Cambodia were expected to be a phenomenon at the Games. They had home advantage, a comfortable schedule and a heavily invested squad led by Japanese football legend Keisuke Honda. They started with a bang, thrashing Timor Leste 4-0.

However, in the second match against the Philippines, they wasted many chances and only got a 1-1 draw. After the match, Sokha announced he would resign if Cambodia did not qualify for the semifinals.

In the group game against Myanmar, Cambodia conceded two goals in the first half and were unable to make a comeback.

With four points, the team dropped to third in their group, two points fewer than Myanmar and five fewer than Indonesia.

Cambodia can only advance if they beat Indonesia and Myanmar fail to win against the Philippines in the last round.

FFC vice president Khieu Samet will serve as the acting president of the federation until the role is filled.