Football clubs, coaches, players, and fans across Cambodia are mourning the tragic death of Tes Sambath, a talented national defender and player for Visakha FC. He was just 25 years old.
Sambath passed away on the night of April 20 after a motorcycle accident in Kamraeng village, Dangkor district, Phnom Penh. According to eyewitnesses, he lost control of his motorcycle and fell into a stream, where he drowned. Visakha FC confirmed his death at 12:16 p.m. on Monday, stating the accident occurred around 10:30 p.m. the night before.
The club described his passing as a heartbreaking loss for Cambodian football, remembering him not only as a talented player but also a kind-hearted husband, father, and teammate.
“On behalf of the management, staff, and all players of Visakha FC, we are profoundly shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of Tes Sambath,” the club said in an official statement. “We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and pray for his soul to find peace and eternal rest.”
The news has sent shockwaves throughout the Cambodian football community. Clubs, coaches, and fans from across the country have shared messages of grief and remembrance on social media, many expressing disbelief and sorrow.
Sambath, who had battled injuries in recent years, remained respected for his leadership and bravery on the field. He previously captained the Cambodian national team and Boeung Ket FC before transferring to Visakha FC in 2021.
His football journey began at the Bati National Football Academy from 2014 to 2018. He was later selected for Cambodia’s youth national teams at U-15, U-19, and U-23 levels before advancing to the senior team.
One of Sambath’s biggest disappointments was missing the 2022 SEA Games in Vietnam due to a leg injury.
“I’m really saddened, because that was supposed to be my final SEA Games,” he said at the time. “It was a major goal for my career.”
Now, that career—and his life—has been tragically cut short.
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