National goalkeeper Vireak Dara has been cleared of any wrongdoing following allegations of match-fixing during a Cambodian loss to Singapore last December. Svay Rieng FC
The Football Federation of Cambodia (FFC) has released the results of its investigation into match-fixing allegations against national team goalkeeper, Vireak Dara.
The federation has cleared Dara of any involvement.
The accusations followed a critical passage of play during a December match between the Cambodian and Singaporean men’s teams. Dara made two critical mistakes in quick succession, conceding two goals and leading to a 2-1 loss.
The December 11 match, part of the ASEAN Championship Mitsubishi Electric Cup, was held at the Singapore National Stadium.
“After a thorough investigation, involving specialised officers and the federation’s integrity committee, and with the cooperation of several international experts, the results have conclusively shown that national team player Vira Dara had no involvement in any of the allegations,” clarified an FFC statement.
“The errors that occurred at that time were simply technical mistakes during the game, made unintentionally,” it added.
Dara receives support from his national squad teammate Mohammed Faeez Khan, known as Kan Mo. FFC
The federation emphasised its commitment to continuing investigations into any other match-fixing allegations that arise during competitions – to ensure integrity within Cambodian football.
Following the clearing of his name, Dara expressed his gratitude to the leadership and staff of Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC – his domestic club – and the FFC, who worked hard to restore his reputation in light of the accusations.
“I am truly happy to see this clear resolution. I am grateful to the leadership, who have always been supportive of me,” he said.
Dara also shared his thanks and appreciation to his family and fans, who have consistently supported and encouraged him, especially during this difficult time.
Despite being cleared of match-fixing, he still accepted responsibility for the critical mistakes he made during the match.
“I, Vireak Dara, sincerely apologise to all football fans in Cambodia for making these serious errors, which were completely unintentional. I fully acknowledge my mistake,” he stated.
The FFC has announced several new measures to prevent future match-fixing allegations within the national team.
Following its 19th congress on February 1, it announced how the proceeds from national matches will be distributed.
Following taxes and operating costs, the remining funds will be split four ways.
One quarter will go the federation, while associations/clubs with players on the national team will also divide one quarter, as will the national team itself.
The remaining 25 per cent will be used to fund health and well-being programmes.
