Cambodia national football team captain dies at 24 in motorbike accident

According to the Phnom Penh Post, the 24-year-old defender lost control of his motorbike, veered off the road and fell into a stream, where he drowned. Authorities confirmed his time of death at approximately 10:30 p.m on April 20.

At noon the following day, Sambath’s club Visakha FC officially announced the news.

"We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Sambath's passing," the club said in a statement. "Cambodian football has lost a great talent. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and pray that his soul rests in peace."

Sambath’s death shocked Cambodia’s football community. Clubs, coaches, players and fans across the country have expressed their grief and paid tribute to the young defender on social media.

Born on Oct. 20, 2000, Sambath began his football journey at the Bati National Football Academy from 2014 to 2018. He was widely regarded as one of Cambodia’s most promising defenders. He captained both the national team and Boeung Ket FC (2018–2021) before joining Visakha in 2021.

Sambath was known for his versatility, capable of playing both as a center back and a defensive midfielder. He represented Cambodia at various youth levels, including the U15, U19 and U23 teams. One of his biggest regrets was missing the SEA Games 31 in Vietnam in 2022 due to a leg injury, since it was his last chance to play in the tournament.

At the senior level, Sambath earned 16 caps after making his debut in 2021 and participated in the AFF Cup (now ASEAN Cup) in both 2020 and 2022. However, recurring leg injuries affected his form and he had not been called up to the national team in the past two years.