Thrilla In Cambodia

Ilhan Fandi, the much talked-about man these days; came up big for Singapore again; as his sensational 101st-minute winner propelled Singapore to an opening match win in a Thrilla In Cambodia.

Singapore looked the more accomplished of the 2 teams; and they took the lead after 22 minutes when Shawal Anuar took an opportunistic pot-shot that beat a poorly-positioned Hul Kimhuy in the Cambodian goal.

The second half though was a different story; as the Cambodian substitutes Chanthea & Sa Ty added pace & impetus down the flanks. Suddenly Cambodia looked threatening; and their persistence paid off when right-back Ouk Sovann lashed home a brilliant drive at the hour mark to draw the home side level.

There was more VAR drama to come; as a late goal from Singapore was correctly ruled out for offside on substitute Jacob Mahler. But that was before the late show from another substitute Ilhan Fandi; who picked up a pass from Song Ui Young & smashed in an acrobatic winner with virtually the last kick of the game.