Talented Cambodian strikers Lim Pisoth and Sa Ty have made a surprise jump between Phnom Penh Crown and Visakha FC. However, captain Orn Chanpolin has not left Phnom Penh Crown.
Former national representative Wut Tola has also found a new home after being absent from the pitch for nearly two years.
Many were stunned when Crown announced they had parted ways with young striker Pisoth, who had been with the club since his youth days. Pisoth has been part of Crown for 13 years, joining in 2012 and playing in the youth team until he was promoted to the senior squad in 2020.
During his more than four years with the senior team, he helped the club win the Cambodian Premier League (CPL) title two years in a row, in 2021 and 2022, and finish as runners-up in the 2023–2024 and 2024–2025 seasons. He also played a key role in helping the club win the Hun Sen Cup for a third time in the 2024–2025 season — following previous victories in 2008 and 2009.
Everything Pisoth had achieved with Phnom Penh Crown over the past 13 years came to an end with the club’s announcement on Wednesday night.
“We have parted ways with player Lim Pisoth. Thank you for your efforts on the field and your many achievements over the years. We wish you all the best in your continued football journey,” said a statement from the club.
Visakha also made a surprise announcement on Wednesday night.
“Thank you to Sa Ty for your commitment to our club over the past three seasons. We all wish you continued success in your football career and future endeavours,” it said.
This morning, July 10, Cambodian football fans were even more shocked when Crown announced Sa Ty as their new striker, while Visakha welcomed Pisoth. This confirmed that the two clubs had agreed to swap the two players — something no one had expected.
Unofficial sources revealed that Pisoth’s transfer was the most expensive ever in the CPL, even more than star striker Sieng Chanthea’s recent move from Boeung Ket to Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng. The precise financial terms were not disclosed by either club.
Following his departure from Crown, Pisoth posted a message thanking the late Rithy Samnang and his wife, founders of the club, for their contributions to society and youth football development in Cambodia.
He acknowledged that his entire football upbringing happened at Crown, where he was shaped into the professional player he is today.
“I sincerely thank the club management, coaches and staff who have supported me for over ten years. I received training and achieved success here. Phnom Penh Crown will always be in my heart,” he said.
Despite some speculation, midfielder Chanpolin has not left the club. Crown confirmed that their talismanic captain renewed his long-term contract on Tuesday.
The club has also revived the football career of former national striker Tola, bringing him into the “Red Lions” squad. Tola has been off the field for nearly two years, last appearing in 2023 for the Ministry of Interior FC.
