Cambodia football leader reverses resignation on PM’s appeal

Sokha announced his decision to resign on Sunday following Cambodia’s 0-2 loss to Myanmar in a group stage match of the SEA Games men’s football competition.

Before that, when Cambodia drew 1-1 against Philippines, Sokha had announced that he would resign if the host team could not make it past the group stage.

In a message that Prime Minister Hun Sen wrote on social media on Monday, he asked Sokha to reverse his decision to resign.

The PM stated that Cambodian football had gradually improved under Sokha’s guidance.

Sen stated that he hoped Sokha would continue to accompany the players on their next journeys.

“I accept the appeals of Prime Minister Hun Sen and football lovers in Cambodia, who convinced me to continue my mandate as the head of Football Federation of Cambodia,” Sokha said in a statement on Monday.

Sokha also called for all clubs, players, coaches, officials and referees in Cambodia to continue to reform and develop all facets of the nation’s football tradition.

With four points after three games, the chances of advancing past the SEA Games’ group stage for host Cambodia are slim. They will need to beat group leader Indonesia and hope that Myanmar cannot beat Philippines in their next and final matchup.