PHNOM PENH – Cambodia kicked off their AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifying campaign with a spirited 1–1 draw against Hong Kong on June 29, 2025, in front of 1,268 fans at Phnom Penh’s Olympic Stadium.
Hong Kong struck first in the 31st minute when midfielder Leung Hong Kiu Anke calmly slotted home a penalty. But the hosts refused to back down. In the 82nd minute, substitute striker Voeun Sothan capitalized on a rebound off the Hong Kong goalkeeper to score the equalizer, earning Cambodia a crucial point in their tournament opener.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Cambodia head coach Conor Nestor Lorence praised his team’s resilience, particularly in the second half.
“Hong Kong is a very experienced side — they’ve competed at this level before,” he said. “But I’m pleased with how we responded. The second half showed what we’re capable of.”
Lorence stressed the importance of consistency as Cambodia prepares for their next match.
“If we can play the way we did in the second half for the full 90 minutes, we’ll continue to improve. That’s what it takes to compete at the top level,” he added.
Acknowledging that this was Cambodia’s debut at such a high level of competition, Lorence said the team was still adjusting to the intensity.
“It was a learning curve. The players started to believe after the first half — they realized they can play at this level,” he said. “That belief is the most valuable takeaway. They’re here because they’re growing, and they’re only going to get better.”
He also called on fans to keep showing up and fueling the team’s energy.
“The crowd brought real spirit tonight, and we’re grateful. As I said last time, please come back — and bring your friends. Your support means everything.”
Across the pitch, Hong Kong head coach José Ricardo Rambo didn’t hide his disappointment after surrendering the lead late in the match.
“Of course we’re disappointed,” he admitted. “After a year of building this team, we expected a better result. We handled the pressure and intensity early on, but lost control in key moments, especially in the second half.”
Rambo also expressed frustration with a few missed opportunities.
“We had a couple of chances we felt could’ve been penalties, and another good shot. But at this level, you have to stay composed under pressure. If we want to qualify, we must manage these situations better.”
Cambodia midfielder Hok Saody, who was named Player of the Match, reflected on the team’s performance with cautious optimism.
“I’m happy with the result. We made some mistakes in the first half but improved after the break and found our goal,” she said. “It was a tough match, but we showed fight.”
Following Matchday 1, the Philippines top Group G after a commanding 3–0 win over Saudi Arabia. Cambodia sits second and will next face the Philippines, while Hong Kong looks to bounce back against Saudi Arabia. Both matches are set for July 2 at the Olympic National Stadium.