Sri Lanka secures historic victory over Cambodia in AFC Asian Cup qualifiers

Sri Lanka registered a remarkable victory over Cambodia in the second leg of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers playoffs, winning through a penalty shootout.

Manager Abdullah Almutairi made a surprising change to the lineup, bringing in experienced player Waseem Razeek, leaving out Sam Durrant, who had excelled in the first leg in Colombo.

The match started evenly, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm. However, Sri Lanka took the lead in the 37th minute when Oliver Kelaart scored just before halftime.

Cambodia responded strongly in the second half, with Sosidan Nhean equalizing in the 50th minute. In extra time, Cambodia took the lead following a corner kick, but Claudio Mathias scored a crucial goal for Sri Lanka in the dying moments, sending the match to penalties.

Sri Lankan goalkeeper and captain saved Cambodia’s first two penalties, while Jack Hingert, Oliver Kelaart, Sam Durrant, and Leon Perera all converted their spot-kicks, securing a memorable victory. Teenage sensation Tenuka Ranaweera also made his senior debut in extra time.

Sri Lanka now advances to the 2025 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.