Cambodian champions Preah Reach Khan Svay Rieng FC produced a commanding performance to book their place in the final of the AFC Challenge League 2025/26 after defeating Manila Digger FC 3-0 in the semi-final second leg at Rizal Memorial Stadium, Manila.
The emphatic victory secured a 4-1 aggregate triumph for the Cambodian side, sending them into the tournament final for the second consecutive year as they look to go one better after finishing runners-up in the previous edition.
The hosts from the Philippines showed early intent, with Modou Manneh testing goalkeeper Vireak Dara with a direct effort, while a dangerous cross almost caused problems before defender Saret Krya intervened just in time to deny Kenji Nishioka an open-goal opportunity.
However, it was Svay Rieng who struck first in the 11th minute.
Defender Saret Krya, already influential at the back, rose highest to meet a pinpoint free-kick delivery from Patrick Robson and powered a header into the net to give the visitors the breakthrough.
Buoyed by the opening goal, Svay Rieng continued to push forward. Cristian dos Santos tested goalkeeper Omar Njie with a long-range effort while Robson saw another attempt crash against the crossbar.
Their persistence paid off again in the 39th minute.
Although Njie managed to parry Tiago Alves’ initial strike, Ghanaian forward Kwame Peprah reacted quickest to the rebound, calmly slotting the ball home to double the advantage and place the Cambodian side firmly in control before halftime.
Manila Digger emerged after the break determined to claw their way back into the tie. Kim Versales rallied his teammates as the Filipino side increased the tempo in search of a goal.
Their best opportunity arrived just before the hour mark when Yuga Watanabe’s knockdown found Saikou Ceesay, whose volley looked destined for goal before Souey Visal produced a crucial block to preserve the lead.
After absorbing sustained pressure, Svay Rieng delivered the decisive blow in the 68th minute.
Peprah once again proved the difference-maker, expertly controlling a looping pass from Robson before shrugging off two defenders and firing a powerful finish into the bottom corner to seal the 3-0 victory.
The dominant performance confirms Svay Rieng’s growing stature in regional football as they return to the AFC Challenge League final for a second straight season.
Having fallen short in last year’s final, the Cambodian champions will now have another opportunity to claim the continental crown and complete a remarkable journey in the 2025/26 campaign.
Credit Photo : PKR Svay Rieng FC
