Malaysian representatives Kuching City FC were handed a disappointing start to their AFC Champions League Two 2026/27 campaign after suffering a late 2-1 defeat to Cambodian side Phnom Penh Crown FC at Morodok Techo National Stadium, Phnom Penh.
Head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak fielded a strong starting XI for the continental clash, with Ronald Ngah Wanja leading the attack while Petrus Shitembi wore the captain’s armband.
Phnom Penh Crown started brightly and created the first major opportunity in the 12th minute when Callum Timmins found himself with a close-range chance, only for Kuching City goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli to make an excellent save to keep the visitors level.
Kuching City struggled to gain control of the contest as the hosts dominated possession and moved the ball effectively through quick, accurate short passes.
Despite Phnom Penh Crown creating the better opportunities, neither side could find the breakthrough before the interval, with the first half ending goalless.
The hosts continued to dictate the tempo after the restart, although Kuching City looked more organised and positive compared with their first-half display.
Their pressure finally paid off in the 55th minute when Moses Dyer broke the deadlock, calmly finishing a well-worked move after receiving a precise assist from Guytho Mijland to give Phnom Penh Crown a 1-0 lead.
Aidil responded by making a double substitution, introducing Ramadhan Saifullah and Ajdin Mujagic as Kuching City searched for an equaliser.
The changes immediately injected fresh energy into the Malaysian side and Mujagic duly delivered in the 71st minute, firing a low effort beyond Phnom Penh Crown goalkeeper Um Vichet to restore parity at 1-1.
With the match heading towards a draw, however, Moses Dyer produced the decisive moment.
The Phnom Penh Crown forward struck again in the closing stages, converting from a corner to complete his brace and seal a dramatic 2-1 victory for the Cambodian outfit.
The defeat leaves Kuching City needing a response in their next Group H encounter as they return home to face Hong Kong side Kitchee SC on October 15.
On the same date, Phnom Penh Crown will travel to South Korea to take on Gangwon FC in their second group-stage fixture.
Credit Photo : AFC
