Phnom Penh, March 25, 2024 – The 8th Charity Friendship Football Match, held on the evening of March 24, 2024, at the Old Stadium, successfully raised a total of $12,666. The funds were donated to families and their children who are currently receiving treatment in hospitals due to a devastating house fire.
Thul Neang, Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the 8th Charity Friendship Football Match and Director of the Department of Labor and Vocational Training in Kandal Province, shared insights into the event, which saw participation from four teams. He highlighted the teams' spirit of friendship, solidarity, and commitment to playing sports for health benefits. More importantly, the event was a platform to gather support for victims of the house fire, providing financial assistance during their time of need.
Neang noted that the collected funds were contributions from philanthropic individuals, companies, enterprises, and through the efforts of the four participating football teams. The Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia in Kandal Province contributed $3,074, Immortals in Sihanoukville donated $4,300, Samaki Youth in Svay Rieng provided $3,059, and Cambodian Football All Stars raised $2,233.
"Experiencing a house fire and suffering physical harm is a devastating ordeal. It's crucial for us, as members of the Cambodian community, to band together and support one another through whatever means possible," Neang stated. "The $12,666 raised through this charity football match will go a long way in helping the affected families rebuild their lives and alleviate some of their suffering. While it may not cover all their needs, it significantly eases their burden."
Neang also mentioned that the teams are planning to continue organizing the charity event in the future, underscoring the importance of using football as a means to engage in humanitarian efforts.
The event concluded with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, Kandal Province, clinching the 8th Charity Friendship Award of 2024, after a 5-0 victory over the Samaki Youth Team of Svay Rieng Province. The third place was secured by the Immortal Youth Team in Sihanoukville, which defeated the Cambodian Football All Stars with a score of 8-1.
