Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng have officially secured a spot in the AFC Challenge League 2025/26 quarterfinals, following their 3–0 win over Laos club Ezra on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, Phnom Penh Crown’s progression remains uncertain, despite a 3–1 comeback victory over Myanmar’s Shan United in Indonesia.
During the home match, played at Morodok Techo National Stadium, Svay Rieng dominated possession against Ezra and found the net three times — two goals in the first half and one more in the second.
Striker Patrick Robson opened the scoring in the 20th minute, putting Svay Rieng ahead 1–0. Japanese midfielder Takashi Odawara doubled the lead in first-half stoppage time (45+2’), and Yudai Ogawa, a Japanese-born Cambodian player, scored from a free kick in the 50th minute to make it 3–0.
With a comfortable lead, head coach Matthew McConkey made five key substitutions, starting with Robson in the 57th minute and Odawara, who left the field due to a leg injury. Striker Peprah Kwame, captain Soeuy Visal and Brazilian forward Roque Cristian were also subbed off.
Sieng Chanthea, Chou Sinti, Nhean Sosidan, Bin Chanthatheary and Narong Kakada came on as substitutes. The changes slightly altered Svay Rieng’s rhythm, allowing Ezra to create two or three decent chances — all denied either by goalkeeper Vireak Dara or by poor finishing.
The 3–0 result mirrored Svay Rieng’s opening victory over SP Falcons FC of Mongolia. With two wins from two matches, Svay Rieng remain top of Group D, while Manila Digger (Philippines) sit second after beating SP Falcons 2–0 on Monday.
Both Svay Rieng and Manila Digger have now secured automatic qualification for the quarterfinals, ahead of their head-to-head clash on November 1, which will decide the Group D winner. Meanwhile, Ezra and SP Falcons, both with two defeats, have been eliminated from the tournament.
In Group E, hosted in Indonesia, home side Dewa United are almost guaranteed a quarterfinal spot after crushing Tainan City (Taiwan) 4–0 last night, moving to the top of the table with four points.
Crown, who also have four points, defeated Shan United 3–1, thanks to a brace from Moses Dyer and a goal from Markerlo Tellez Menendez. However, their progression remains uncertain, as they must still face Tainan City, who also retain a chance to qualify.
The November 1 match between Crown and Tainan is now a must-win showdown. The victor will advance to the quarterfinals alongside Dewa United, who finish their group stage against Shan United. Nevertheless, Crown hold a slight advantage — a draw would still be enough for them to progress.
