CAMBODIA LOOK TO FRENCH REINFORCEMENTS

Cambodia failed to make the cut for the AFF Suzuki Cup this year when they finished third in the qualifying round which was held in Laos recently. Only the top two teams – Laos and Philippines – qualified for the final round of the AFF Suzuki Cup which will be hosted by Vietnam and Jakarta next month.

Cambodia had qualified for the final round of the AFF Suzuki Cup in 2008.

Towards giving further strength to the Cambodia national team, a French-based side coached by Cambodian football legend Pen Phath, arrived in Phnom Penh this week where they will play five friendly matches against local professional clubs.

The Cambodian Selection team is comprised of French residents whose parentage would allow them to play for the Cambodian national team.

The programme was initiated by FFC President Sao Sokha during an official visit to Paris in late January last year.

Pen Phath was appointed as the FFC representative in Paris and was charged with attracting and nurturing young Cambodian talents. About 30 youngsters from cities such as Paris, Lyon and Nancy attended training sessions every weekend and during the holidays.

“I hope that FFC can see the performance of the players from abroad who always want to develop football in the Kingdom. We can choose them to help the national team,” said Pen Phath.

During their sojourn, the Cambodian Selection side will play against Preah Khan Reach, Naga Corp, Phnom Penh Crown, Kampong Cham and Battambang.