EN
Arkadag are deserving winners, says Allaberdiyev
Phnom Penh: They may have seemed to be have been on the ropes but head coach Ahmet Allaberdiyev said FC Arkadag fully deserved to lift the AFC Challenge League™ 2024/25 trophy on Saturday.
The side from Turkmenistan had to work hard to defeat a spirited Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC, who had almost 52,000 fans willing them on in the final.

Arkadag, however, weathered the storm before taking the lead through Mekan Saparow. It was cancelled out by Saret Krya to force extra-time but Altymyrat Annadurdyyew came off the bench to score the winner in the 112th minute.

#ChallengeLeague | Final: Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC (CAM) 1-2 AET FC Arkadag (TKM)

#ChallengeLeague | Final: Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC (CAM) 1-2 AET FC Arkadag (TKM)

"It was a very difficult match and with great atmosphere with 51,000 fans. It was very good and I am proud of how my players stayed competitive throughout the match.

"We did our job very well and I am very happy we got the trophy," said the tactician.
image content
Such was Svay Rieng's dominance that the Cambodian side had almost 74 percent possession, 31 shots - seven of which were on target - but crucially, could only score once.

"Svay Rieng are a strong team. They had a very good gameplan. We had analysed their matches and made many decisions on how to manage them.

"We prepared hard for this game and were determined to not falter in the final."
Allaberdiyev said the triumph was for Turkmenistan football as it showed that clubs from the nation can compete at the highest levels.

"This victory is a boost not only for the club but for Turkmenistan football in general.

"The players knew what was at stake and didn't stop fighting till the end of the 120 minutes. We deserve to be champions."