The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) extends its warmest congratulations to Manila Digger FC of the Philippines Football League (PFL) for a courageous and hard-earned 1-1 draw against PKR Svay Rieng in the first leg of the 2025–26 AFC Challenge League semifinals, held on April 9 at the Morodok Techo National Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Manila Digger, currently in second place in the 2025-26 PFL table, embodied the true spirit of Filipino bravery and resilience, overcoming an early setback and battling until the final minutes to secure a crucial away result. The performance not only keeps the club firmly in contention for a historic finals berth, but also reflects the growing competitiveness of Philippine club football on the continental stage.
PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez praised Manila Digger’s performance as a reflection of Filipino grit and determination.
On Araw ng Kagitingan, Manila Digger FC showed the true meaning of ‘giting’ by fighting until the final whistle and refusing to yield in the face of adversity. Their performance is a proud representation of Filipino heroism, and we stand firmly behind them as they pursue a historic place in the AFC club final.
The home side struck early in the 4th minute, with Portuguese striker Tiago Alves, capitalizing on a weak defensive clearance by Modou Manneh to give Svay Rieng the lead off a corner set piece.
The Cambodian champions continued to press, creating multiple chances throughout the first half, but Manila Digger goalkeeper Omar Njie delivered a series of vital saves to keep the deficit manageable.
Despite conceding early, Manila Digger responded with attacking intent, with Pa Ousman Gai, David Sambou, and Kenji Nishioka all coming close to finding the equalizer before halftime.
The second half developed into a tactical and physical contest, with both teams trading opportunities but unable to break through.
Svay Rieng threatened to extend their lead through Alves and Connor Shields, while Manila Digger continued to probe from distance and set-piece situations. As the match entered its final stages, the Filipino side’s persistence and discipline proved decisive.
In the 85th minute, Manneh delivered a precise cross from the right flank, finding Gai inside the box. The Ivorian forward rose above the defense and powered a header into the bottom corner, silencing the home crowd and leveling the match at 1-1.
“In the first half, we didn’t capitalize on our chances. But fortunately, on the dying minutes, we managed to equalize and we never gave up,” said Gai.
It’s two legs. Absolutely, we did incredible today because we played in front of 16,000 fans and we ended up drawing.
Manila Digger head coach Kim Versales acknowledged the challenge posed by the home side and emphasized the importance of preparation ahead of the return leg.
“We expected a tough game, playing against a home team. It’s an honor and a big opportunity for us to play against them, and we expect a long battle,” said Versales. “We need to prepare our players mentally, ensure proper rest, and study how we can improve, especially in defending set pieces.”
Versales also highlighted the team’s character in mounting the comeback.
“Our performance was not 100 percent, particularly in the first half where we had chances but didn’t convert. They capitalized on our mistakes, but I knew our players would respond because of their fighting spirit. We just kept playing to our strengths,” he added.
The result marks the second consecutive draw between Manila Digger and Svay Rieng this season, following their 2-2 stalemate last November in the group stage, and sets up a decisive second leg in Manila.
The return leg will be held on April 16 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, with kickoff scheduled at 8:00 PM. PFF calls on Filipino football supporters to rally behind Manila Digger FC as they aim to secure a historic ticket to the AFC Challenge League final and further elevate Philippine football on the Asian stage.
(All photos from Manila Digger)
