Phnom Penh Crown coach Oleg Starynskyi shakes hands with his Svay Rieng counterpart Pep Munoz during an April 4 press conference. Crown
Phnom Penh Crown and Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng are set to face off again at Crown’s home ground Smart RSN Stadium this Saturday evening, with both teams determined to claim three crucial points in this high-stakes match, which may well shape the race for the 2024–2025 Cambodian Premier League (CPL) title.
After 24 matches, Svay Rieng currently leads the table with 61 points, just one point ahead of Crown.
This makes the upcoming encounter a highly anticipated and decisive showdownin the battle for the top spot.
Svay Rieng head coach Pep Munoz expressed his determination, during Friday, April 4 press conference.
“Tomorrow’s match is very important for us. We will do our best to play well and secure three points. We have thoroughly prepared and will fight to take those points,” he said.
Crown’s head coach Oleg Starynskyi downplayed the idea that this match alone could determine the league champion. He pointed out that after this clash, the top six sides still have five more matches to play, meaning the title race remains open.
However, he acknowledged the importance of securing the points on offer.
“The result of tomorrow’s match will not determine who will be champions because we still have five games left. It will only give us a clearer picture of which team holds an advantage. That’s why we will give our all to win these crucial three points,” he said.
Action from the two side’s most recent encounter, last January. Svay Rieng (in blue) claimed a 3-1 victory on that occasion. Crown
Their two previous encounters this season have been seen both mixed results from both squads, with Crown winning the first match 4-3, at home in October, and Svay Rieng taking the January victory 3-1.
“At that time, Crown was still unbeaten, and we were under pressure because we were trailing them by four points. But this time, we are the ones leading by one point,” said Munoz, as he reflected on the 4-3 loss.
“In over a year, I have not yet been able to beat Phnom Penh Crown at their home ground. So, I really want to win this time. Of course, it’s not just about winning — we want to put on a great performance, show our determination and ambition, and play well here,” he added.
Despite his confidence, Munoz acknowledged the quality of the Crown squad, including both their local and foreign players. He also noted that Crown have adjusted their playing system, making them more similar to their previous season’s style, which he admitted was a concern.
“Since we are reaching the end of the season, each player has their own personal goals. So, tomorrow, every player — whether from Svay Rieng or Crown — will give their all on the pitch. That’s why we must prepare our team well and secure the three points,” added the Spaniard.
