Cambodian goalkeeper suspected of match-fixing in ASEAN Cup

In the away match against Singapore in the second round of Group A on December 11, Vireak made two silly mistakes leading to two goals in just 7 minutes.

In the 9th minute, from a back pass from the away team's defender, the 21-year-old goalkeeper missed the ball, allowing striker Faris Ramli to easily tap the ball into the empty net from close range. In the 16th minute, another back pass from the Cambodian defender was not difficult, but Vireak's first-touch pass was missed. This time, striker Shawal Anuar appeared at the right time to kick the ball into the empty net, raising the score to 2-0.

Vireak's teammates then tried to make amends for his mistake, but only scored one goal in the second half and lost 1-2. After the match, Cambodian fans reacted strongly to the home team's goalkeeper, suspecting Vireak of match-fixing.

According to the newspaperKhmer Times, in response to negative suspicions from fans, General Sao Sokha, Chief of the Cambodian Military Police and also President of the FFC, decided to open an investigation to clarify the matter. "Other honest officials and players who are not involved in the incident have nothing to worry about regarding their integrity," General Sokha emphasized.

Vireak, who currently plays for Svay Rieng FC in the Cambodian National Championship, has only started four matches for the national team. The match against Singapore was the 21-year-old goalkeeper's first appearance at the ASEAN Cup. His elementary mistake left fans with big questions.

"I suggest that FFC check and investigate goalkeeper Vireak for deliberately conceding two consecutive goals. How many bank accounts does he have? Has his or his relatives' account balance increased abnormally? For Singapore to score two goals like that is 70 to 90% cheating," a fan wrote onFacebook.

Meanwhile, Vireak's teammates believe in him and try their best to protect him. "The tournament is not over yet, the team has two important matches left. Every player is fighting and wants to win for the home team. However, silly mistakes are common in football. I completely believe in and support Vireak," teammate Nick Taylor wrote on his personal page.

After two matches, Cambodia currently has 1 point, ranking fourth. Today, December 17, they will host Timor Leste at home, then visit Thailand 3 days later. Cambodia will have to win both matches if they want to qualify for the semi-finals.