EN
McConkey heartbroken but proud of Svay Rieng’s progress
Ardhiyah: Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC were left to once again endure heartbreak after a dramatic extra-time defeat to Kuwait SC in the AFC Challenge League 2025/26™ final on Wednesday.
The Cambodian side, who also fell at the same stage last year, twice led the pulsating contest at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium but couldn’t hold on as Kuwait SC lifted the trophy with a 4-3 win. 

Head coach McConkey admitted that his team had opportunities to close out the game and were punished for not doing so.

#ChallengeLeague | Final: Kuwait SC (KUW) 4-3 (AET) Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC (CAM)

#ChallengeLeague | Final: Kuwait SC (KUW) 4-3 (AET) Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC (CAM)

“It was a very tough game that we feel we let slip. We scored three goals, but conceding in transition and a couple of individual mistakes cost us,” said McConkey. 

“We had our moments, especially in the first half where we played better and took our chances, but we couldn’t sustain it. In the second half, we lost energy and struggled to keep them at bay.”
image content
The tactician admitted the result was difficult to process but said there are clear signs of progress in the Cambodian club’s continental journey.

“It is heartbreaking to lose a final for the second time but we are at a higher level than last year, on a better trajectory, and we must keep improving.”

Svay Rieng, already crowned Cambodian league champions, will be back for a third attempt in the 2026/27 season.