The head of the Football Federation of Cambodia (FFC) has reversed his decision to resign after a request by Prime Minister Hun Sen and fans to remain in the job.

Sao Sokha, who is also the commander of the National Military Police, resigned on Sunday after Cambodia lost to Myanmar, lessening hopes for the host to advance to the semi-finals of the 32nd SEA Games.

Sokha said in a statement on Monday that he will continue as the head of the FFC and urged stakeholders to reform football in Cambodia.

“I respectfully accept the appeal from Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei, all football lovers, the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport, private sponsor companies, media and foreign friends to continue to lead the Football Federation of Cambodia in accordance with the election mandate,” Sokha said.

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“In response to the trust of Samdech Techo and all Cambodia football lovers, I would like to appeal to clubs, associated members of FFC, officials, staff, coaches, referees, all players that they must continue to reform in all areas for the progress in the field of football in Cambodia.”

Hun Sen on Monday called on Sokha to continue leading the FFC, urging him not to be disappointed with the loss, saying that “we did a good job, especially our athletes, it’s called sports”.

Hun Sen added that since Sokha took charge, football has improved and seen the team play big matches.

“[In the] match with Myanmar, we failed, but we won Cambodian hearts because before we used to be at the bottom of the list, but now we moved to a better level,” Hun Sen said.

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