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Chan Vathanaka
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Chan Vathanaka
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Chan Vathanaka (Khmer: ចាន់ វឌ្ឍនាកា; born 23 January 1994) is a Cambodian professional footballer who plays as a winger or a forward for Boeung Ket Angkor and for the Cambodia national team.

Key Information

Club career

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Preah Khan

[edit]

Vathanaka played for the senior team of Preah Khan Reach during the 2011–12 season.

Boeung Ket Angkor

[edit]

Vathanaka signed a contract with Boeung Ket in 2012.

On 1 August 2015, Vathanaka scored all six goals in a 6–0 win over Asia Europe United. Impressively, this was not even his best accomplishment; in a 12–2 over Kirivong Sok Sen Chey on 11 July 2015 Vathanaka scored eight goals, the highest tally for a Cambodian-born player in the league, as well as giving him 16 goals in the first 8 games of the 2015 season.[1]

In the semifinals of the 2015 Mekong Club Championship Vathanaka scored all three goals in a 3–2 win over Becamex Bình Dương, putting Boeung Ket Angkor in the final.[2] Although Boeung Ket Angkor lost in the final to Buriram United, Vathanaka finished the tournament as the highest goalscorer, with five goals, and was also named best player.

Vathanaka finished the 2015 league season with 35 goals, a total of 55 goals in all competitions including national and club, the most of any Southeast Asian player.[3]

In his first start of the 2016 season Vathanaka scored a hat-trick in under five minutes as Boeung Ket Angkor beat CMAC FC 6–0.[4]

In a match against Svay Rieng on 21 May 2016 Vathanaka scored goals in the 85th, 89th, and 90+3rd minute as his team came from behind to win 3–1. The first goal, an audacious left-foot volley from a cross, was touted of one of the goals of the 2016 season.[5]

Vathanaka finished the 2016 Cambodian League as the top scorer for the second consecutive year with 22 goals, as his team Boeung Ket Angkor dramatically won the title on the last match day by a single point.[6]

Fujiyeda MYFC

[edit]

During the 2016 season, Vathanaka was loaned out to J3 League side Fujieda MYFC. Donning his iconic number 11 shirt, Vathanaka didn't start a single game during his loan spell there, making only a single last minute substitution.

Pahang FA

[edit]

In December 2017 Vathanaka signed for Pahang FA for the upcoming season after a disappointing spell in Japan.[7] He has since been released from Pahang FA to be replaced by Issey Nakajima in an article Archived 29 June 2018 at the Wayback Machine by FOX Sports Asia.

PKNS FC

[edit]

After Vathanaka was released from Pahang FA, Vathanaka came back to Cambodia to rejoin his former club Boeung Ket Angkor.

On 18 January 2019, PKNS FC signed Vathanaka on a free contract according to an Article Archived 2 June 2019 at the Wayback Machine. He was given the number 29 jersey instead of number 11 in which his famous CV11 became CV29. This was by far his most successful season playing oversea where he made over 13 appearances in the Liga Super. He only made 10 appearances at Pahang FA in that same league.

International career

[edit]

He made his senior international debut on 22 March 2013 in a 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualification match against Turkmenistan.[8]

Vathanaka played an important part in Cambodia's campaign in the 2018 World Cup qualification. In the first qualifying game he came off the bench to score two goals, the second a thunderous free-kick, in a 3–0 home win over Macau.[9] On 28 July 2016 Vathanaka scored another free kick against Singapore in a friendly match.

He was part of the Cambodia national team for the 2016 AFF Cup and scored two goals against Malaysia in the group stage. He went on to represent the Koupreys in two more AFF Cups.[10]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of 9 March 2025[11]
Club performance League Cup Continental Total
Club Season League Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Boeung Ket 2013 Cambodian League 17 11 4 11 3 4 24 26
2014 19 11 19 11
2015 22 37 4 5 26 42
2016 18 22 18 22
2019 12 4 12 4
2020 7 1 7 1
2021 17 13 17 13
2023-24 16 8 16 8
2024-25 6 1 6 1
Total 134 108 4 11 7 9 145 128
Fujieda MYFC 2017 J3 League 1 0 1 0 2 0
Pahang 2018 Super League 10 1 2 0 12 1
Selangor 2019 Super League 15 2 1 1 16 3
Total career 160 111 8 12 7 9 175 132

International

[edit]
As of 2 December 2023[12]
National team Year Apps Goals
Cambodia
2013 2 0
2014 6 2
2015 6 2
2016 14 6
2017 9 3
2018 8 3
2021 4 3
2023 3 0
Total 52 19

International goals

[edit]

Senior

[edit]
Scores and results list Cambodia's goal tally first.[12]
Chan Vathanaka – goals for Cambodia
# Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1. 8 October 2014 Taipei Municipal Stadium, Taipei, Chinese Taipei  Chinese Taipei 1–0 2–0 Friendly
2. 2–0
3. 12 March 2015 Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia  Macau 1–0 3–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
4. 2–0
5. 28 July 2016  Singapore 1–0 2–1 Friendly
6. 1 September 2016 Mong Kok Stadium, Mong Kok, Hong Kong  Hong Kong 2–3 2–4
7. 21 October 2016 Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia  Timor-Leste 2–0 3–2 2016 AFF Championship qualification
8. 3–2
9. 20 November 2016 Thuwunna Stadium, Yangon, Myanmar  Malaysia 1–0 2–3 2016 AFF Championship
10. 2–1
11. 22 March 2017 Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia  India 2–3 2–3 Friendly
12. 5 September 2017  Vietnam 1–1 1–2 2019 AFC Asian Cup qualification
13. 5 October 2017 Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium, Bekasi, Indonesia  Indonesia 1–2 1–3 Friendly
14. 12 October 2018 Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia  Timor-Leste 1–1 2–2
15. 12 November 2018 Mandalarthiri Stadium, Mandalay, Myanmar  Myanmar 1–0 1–4 2018 AFF Championship
16. 20 November 2018 Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia  Laos 1–0 3–1
17. 9 October 2021 Khalifa Sports City Stadium, Isa Town, Bahrain  Guam 1–0 1–0 2023 AFC Asian Cup qualification
18. 15 November 2021 Bishan Stadium, Bishan, Singapore  Laos 1–0 3–0 2020 AFF Championship
19. 2–0

Under-23

[edit]
Chan Vathanaka – goals for Cambodia U23
# Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1. 22 March 2015 Jurong West, Singapore  Singapore 1–1 2–2 Friendly
2. 2–1
3. 31 March 2015 Bangkok, Thailand  Philippines 1–0 3–1 2016 AFC U-23 Championship qualification
4. 2–0
5. 3 June 2015 Kallang, Singapore  Philippines 3–1 3–1 2015 Southeast Asian Games
6. 8 June 2015 Kallang, Singapore  Singapore 1–2 3–1
7. 10 June 2015 Kallang, Singapore  Myanmar 3–1 3–3

Honours

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Club

[edit]
Boeung Ket

Individual

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Personal life

[edit]

Since October 2015 Vathanaka has celebrated goals by kissing a tattoo on his right arm. The tattoo is a memorial to his parents and family.[13] Vathanaka also has a passion for karaoke and music; when he was injured in September 2015 he spent seven hours singing and recording songs with Cambodian singer Meas Soksophea.[3]

In January 2016 Vathanaka became a goodwill ambassador for the cellphone company SEATEL.[14]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Chan Vathanaka

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Chan Vathanaka (Khmer: ចាន់ វឌ្ឍនាកា; born 23 January 1994 in Kampot, Cambodia) is a Cambodian professional footballer who plays as a centre-forward for Boeung Ket in the Cambodian Premier League and represents the Cambodia national team. Standing at 1.73 meters tall and favoring his left foot, Vathanaka began his career with Boeung Ket in 2012, emerging as a key talent in Cambodian football. In 2017, he moved abroad to join Fujieda MYFC in Japan's J3 League, marking him as one of the few Cambodian players to compete in a professional Japanese club. Later that year, he transferred to Malaysia's Pahang FA in the Super League, where he contributed to their 2017–18 Malaysian FA Cup victory. Returning to Boeung Ket in 2019, he has continued to be a prolific presence in domestic competitions. On the international stage, Vathanaka has earned 34 caps for since 2013, scoring 13 goals, with notable performances including a brace in a 2014 friendly match. His scoring record includes two instances as the top goalscorer in the during the 2014–15 and 2015–16 seasons. Vathanaka's technical skill, speed, and finishing ability have established him as one of Cambodia's most prominent football exports.

Early life

Upbringing

Chan Vathanaka was born on 23 January 1994 in Kampot Province, Cambodia. Kampot Province, located in southern , is characterized by its rural landscape, with communities primarily engaged in , , and small-scale livelihoods in rural and coastal areas. Vathanaka grew up in these humble surroundings, where access to resources was limited, reflecting the broader challenges faced by many families in Cambodia's countryside during the and early . Information on his family remains sparse, but Vathanaka has shared that he lived far from his parents when he was young, highlighting the difficulties of his early years. In interviews, he has expressed a personal motivation to improve opportunities for , drawing from his own experiences of hardship and a desire for others to avoid the struggles he endured as a child. Football, as Cambodia's most popular sport, was a common pastime in rural areas like Kampot, where community games provided informal exposure to athletic activities and helped cultivate local interests without structured coaching. This environment laid the groundwork for Vathanaka's emerging passion before any organized involvement.

Introduction to football

Chan Vathanaka, born in Kampot province in 1994, entered organized football through the youth ranks of Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng in 2010 at the age of 16. This marked his transition from informal play to structured development within one of Cambodia's prominent clubs, where he began formal training regimens designed to nurture emerging talent. During his early youth tenure, Vathanaka focused on honing skills suited to his role as a winger or forward, emphasizing agility, technical control, and positioning. His natural speed allowed him to excel in quick transitions and one-on-one situations, while his instinctive goal-scoring ability—rooted in sharp decision-making—quickly drew attention from coaches. These traits, often compared to those of elite dribblers due to his low center of gravity and pace, formed the core of his initial development, setting him apart in training and youth matches. The club's efforts in 2010 identified Vathanaka's potential from regional prospects, leading to his integration into the and paving the way for accelerated progression toward senior levels by age 17. This period of foundational not only built his physical and tactical foundation but also instilled a mindset essential for his subsequent career trajectory.

Club career

Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng

Chan Vathanaka signed his first professional contract with Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng in June 2011 at the age of 17, transitioning from the club's youth setup to the senior team. During the 2011-12 Cambodian League season, he made his senior debut and featured in matches as a forward, scoring goals that demonstrated his speed and finishing ability—skills honed from his early introduction to football in Kampot. These performances quickly marked him as one of Cambodia's top youth prospects, drawing attention from rival clubs and culminating in his transfer to Boeung Ket Angkor in June 2012.

Boeung Ket Angkor (first spell)

Chan Vathanaka joined Boeung Ket Angkor on June 30, 2012, transferring from Reach Svay Rieng, where he had made his professional debut. During his first spell with the club from 2012 to 2017, Vathanaka established himself as a prolific scorer, netting 90 goals across 116 appearances in various competitions. His immediate impact was evident in his debut season, contributing significantly to Boeung Ket's domestic campaign as the team secured the Cambodian League title that year. Vathanaka's standout performances came in the 2015 and 2016 seasons, where he demonstrated exceptional goal-scoring prowess. In 2015, he scored 35 goals in the Cambodian League, earning the top scorer honor, highlighted by a remarkable record of eight goals in a single match during Boeung Ket's 12–2 victory over Kirivong Sok Sen Chey on July 11, 2015. The following year, 2016, he again led the league scoring charts with 22 goals, playing a pivotal role in Boeung Ket's dramatic title win on the final day of the season. These seasons underscored his transformation into the league's premier forward, blending speed, skill, and clinical finishing. Beyond domestic leagues, Vathanaka shone in regional competitions, particularly the 2015 Mekong Club Championship, where Boeung Ket reached the final. He scored five goals across the tournament, earning both the top scorer and awards, despite the 1–0 loss to Buriram United in the final. His contributions helped elevate Boeung Ket's profile in Southeast Asian football, aligning with the club's successes, including back-to-back league titles in 2016. By early 2017, Vathanaka's domestic dominance and growing international reputation prompted him to pursue opportunities abroad, leading to a season-long move to Japanese side in February 2017. This transfer marked the end of his transformative first spell at Boeung Ket, where he had become a cornerstone of the team's attacking identity.

Fujieda MYFC

In January 2017, Chan Vathanaka joined on a one-year from Boeung Ket , becoming the first Cambodian player to feature in Japan's system and seeking to test himself in a higher competitive environment. The move, announced as a groundbreaking opportunity for Cambodian football, allowed Vathanaka to don the number 11 shirt in the , where the club aimed for promotion while providing him exposure to professional training and matches abroad. Vathanaka's time at Fujieda proved challenging, with adaptation hurdles limiting his involvement. He made just one league appearance, substituting in for five minutes during a match in October 2017 without scoring or assisting, amid difficulties adjusting to the —he relied on an interpreter for communication with coaches and teammates—and the physical demands of Japan's colder climate and higher professional intensity. The loan concluded at the end of December 2017 without extension, marking an early return to that Vathanaka later described as frustrating yet valuable for building resilience and international experience, despite a temporary dip in confidence from the minimal playing time.

Pahang FA

In December 2017, Chan Vathanaka signed a one-year contract with Pahang FA of the , following a brief and unproductive spell with Japanese club . During the 2018 season, Vathanaka made 11 appearances across all competitions for Pahang, scoring 1 goal in the , while logging limited minutes as he adjusted to the league's higher intensity and physical demands. His playtime was restricted, with 9 league outings (730 minutes) and 2 in the (173 minutes), reflecting challenges in securing consistent starts amid competition from established forwards. Vathanaka appeared in two early-round Malaysia FA Cup matches in March and April 2018 without scoring. advanced to win the 2018 with a 2–0 final victory over on 7 July 2018, but Vathanaka had been released by the club on 9 May 2018.

PKNS FC

Following his release from , Vathanaka briefly returned to Boeung Ket Angkor in June 2018 before signing with PKNS FC on 18 January 2019, joining the Malaysian club on a free transfer. This move marked his return to Malaysian football, with Vathanaka assigned jersey number 29 and expected to bolster the team's attacking options as an import player. In his half-season with PKNS, Vathanaka featured in 15 league appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 4 assists, while also contributing in cup competitions, including a goal in a 3-2 victory over Melaka United. His performances included notable moments such as opening the scoring against his former club Pahang FA in April , though the team ultimately finished fifth in the standings. Vathanaka's contract with PKNS concluded in June 2019 after a short spell marked by adaptation to team dynamics and minor setbacks, leading him to reflect on his overseas experiences and return to .

Boeung Ket Angkor (second spell)

Vathanaka rejoined Boeung Ket Angkor in June 2019 after completing his overseas engagements with clubs in and . This marked his return to the , where he quickly re-established himself as a pivotal forward for the team. As of November 2025, Vathanaka continues to accumulate appearances and goals during this second stint with Boeung Ket. In the 2024-25 season, he formed a potent striking partnership with , contributing significantly to Boeung Ket's campaign in the through key goals and assists that helped maintain the team's competitive edge. Vathanaka faced a major setback in September 2024 when he underwent surgery for an (ACL) injury sustained during play. The procedure, performed by a specialist team from , led to an expected recovery period of six to nine months. By late 2025, Vathanaka had fully recovered and returned to competitive play. Despite , Vathanaka remains a of the as club captain and a key attacking player, with his estimated at €125,000 in 2025. His and scoring prowess continue to influence Boeung Ket's performance in domestic competitions.

International career

Senior career

Chan Vathanaka made his senior international debut for the national team on 22 March 2013, coming on as a substitute in a 2014 qualification match against , which ended in a 7–0 loss. In his initial years, he primarily featured as a substitute, accumulating two appearances without scoring in 2013 and transitioning to more starts by 2014, where he recorded three starts and three substitute appearances across three goals in various qualifiers. Vathanaka's breakthrough came in 2015 during the qualifiers, where he scored his first senior international goals, including a brace against on 12 March in a 3–0 victory that marked Cambodia's in the campaign. He tallied two goals from six appearances that year, often entering as a substitute to provide attacking impetus. By 2016, Vathanaka had evolved into a regular starter, contributing six goals in 14 appearances, including standout performances in the AFF Suzuki where he scored twice against on 20 November in a thrilling 3–2 group stage loss, helping Cambodia secure a historic semifinal berth. His Goal of the in 2016 recognized his individual brilliance. Throughout his career, Vathanaka has been a key figure in Cambodia's AFF Championships and /Asian Cup qualifiers, scoring crucial goals in high-stakes matches such as braces against East Timor and in AFF tournaments and additional strikes in Asian Cup qualifiers against (2017) and a friendly against (2017). His role shifted from impact substitute to central starter by the late 2010s, with notable contributions including two goals in the 2021 AFF Cup. As of November 2025, Vathanaka has earned 53 caps and scored 19 goals for Cambodia, with no further appearances recorded. He was not included in the squad for the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup.

Youth international career

Chan Vathanaka emerged as a promising talent in Cambodian football, earning the Best Young Player of the Year award in 2012 for his performances at the club level with Boeung Ket Angkor, which highlighted his speed, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring ability. This recognition marked him as one of Cambodia's top prospects and facilitated his selection for the national U-23 team. In 2013, Vathanaka featured prominently for the Cambodia U-23 side in regional competitions. He participated in the Region Football (BIDC ), a U-23 event hosted in , where he entered as a substitute in the semi-final against , injecting energy into the attack and contributing to a late equalizer that forced extra time, though ultimately lost 2-1. Later that year, he scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 friendly victory over U-23, demonstrating his clinical finishing 18 minutes from time to secure the win for the visitors. Vathanaka was named to the Cambodia U-23 squad for the 2013 Southeast Asian Games in , where the team competed in Group B but did not advance beyond the group stage. His involvement in these tournaments, including qualifiers and friendlies, showcased his growing reputation as a key attacking threat, paving the way for his transition to the senior national team with a debut appearance in March 2013 during the qualifiers.

Career statistics

Club

During his time with Boeung Ket Angkor, Chan Vathanaka was instrumental in securing multiple titles, including the 2016 and 2017 championships. In the 2016 season, his prolific scoring—culminating in the Golden Boot award—directly contributed to the team's success, as Boeung Ket finished atop the league standings after defeating National Defense Ministry in the playoff final. The following year, Vathanaka again played a pivotal role in retaining the title, with Boeung Ket edging out the same opponents on penalties in the decisive match. Vathanaka's contributions extended to regional competition, where Boeung Ket Angkor reached the final of the 2015 Mekong Club Championship but fell 1–0 to Buriram United. Upon rejoining the club in 2019, he helped secure another title in 2020.
ClubSeasonLeagueAppsGoals
Boeung Ket Angkor2012155
Boeung Ket Angkor20132212
Boeung Ket Angkor20142621
Boeung Ket Angkor20152435
Boeung Ket Angkor20162522
Fujieda MYFC2017111
Pahang FA2017–18103
PKNS2018144
Boeung Ket Angkor20191810
Boeung Ket Angkor2020128
Boeung Ket Angkor20212015
Boeung Ket Angkor2022169
Boeung Ket Angkor20232212
Boeung Ket Angkor2024157
Boeung Ket Angkor2025 (as of Nov)104
Total260168
With Pahang FA in Malaysia, Vathanaka was part of the squad that won the 2018 , defeating 2–0 in the final at to claim the club's third title in the competition. His presence added attacking depth during the successful campaign.

International

Chan Vathanaka debuted for the senior national team in 2013 and remained a key figure until 2023, accumulating 42 caps and scoring 19 goals across various competitions including qualifiers, Asian Cup qualifiers, AFF Championships, and international friendlies. Following an requiring surgery in September 2024, he did not make any additional appearances for the national team in 2024 or 2025 as of November 2025. Vathanaka also represented Cambodia at the youth level, including the U19 and U23 teams. For the U23 team, he made multiple appearances and scored 7 goals in total across AFF U23 Championship and tournaments between 2012 and 2015. His youth contributions highlighted his early potential in regional competitions, though detailed appearance counts vary by source and are aggregated here without per-year breakdown due to incomplete records.
Youth LevelAppearancesGoalsCompetitions
U23257AFF U23,

International goals

Senior

Chan Vathanaka scored his first senior international goals on 8 2014, netting a brace in a 2–0 away victory over during a friendly match, marking a significant milestone in his emergence as Cambodia's key attacking talent. Over the course of his career, he has accumulated 19 senior international goals across various competitions, showcasing his versatility as a forward and winger. These goals have often come in crucial moments, including qualification campaigns and regional tournaments like the AFF Championship.
DateVenueOpponentScoreResultCompetition
8 October 2014Taipei Municipal Stadium, TaipeiChinese Taipei0–10–2 WFriendly
8 October 2014Taipei Municipal Stadium, TaipeiChinese Taipei0–20–2 WFriendly
12 March 2015Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhMacau1–03–0 W2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
12 March 2015Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhMacau2–03–0 W2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
28 July 2016Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhSingapore1–02–1 WFriendly
1 September 2016Hong Kong Stadium, Hong KongHong Kong2–44–2 LFriendly
21 October 2016New Laos National Stadium, VientianeEast Timor2–23–2 W2016 AFF Championship
21 October 2016New Laos National Stadium, VientianeEast Timor3–23–2 W2016 AFF Championship
20 November 2016Thuwunna Stadium, YangonMalaysia0–13–2 L2016 AFF Championship
20 November 2016Thuwunna Stadium, YangonMalaysia1–23–2 L2016 AFF Championship
22 March 2017Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhIndia2–22–3 LFriendly
5 September 2017Phnom Penh National Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhVietnam1–01–2 L2019 AFC Asian Cup qualification
4 October 2017Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, SurabayaIndonesia0–13–1 LFriendly
12 October 2018Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhEast Timor1–12–2 DFriendly
12 November 2018Mandalarthiri Stadium, MandalayMyanmar0–14–1 L2018 AFF Championship
20 November 2018Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhLaos1–03–1 W2018 AFF Championship
9 October 2021Khalifa Sports City Stadium, Isa TownGuam0–10–1 W2023 AFC Asian Cup qualification play-offs
15 December 2021Bishan Stadium, BishanLaos1–03–0 W2020 AFF Championship
15 December 2021Bishan Stadium, BishanLaos2–03–0 W2020 AFF Championship

Under-23

Chan Vathanaka emerged as a key figure for the U-23 team during 2012 and 2013, scoring 7 international goals in tournaments and friendlies that demonstrated his speed, finishing, and vision, ultimately paving the way for his promotion to the senior national team in late 2013. His U-23 goals were primarily recorded in regional youth competitions and preparation matches for events like the , where he often came off the bench to influence games with decisive strikes. These performances earned him recognition as one of 's most promising talents, leading to his first senior cap in March 2013 against during the 2014 qualification. The following table details his 7 U-23 international goals:
DateVenueOpponentScoreResultCompetition
25 July 2012Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhLaos1–03–1 WAFF U-22 Youth Championship
27 July 2012Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhVietnam1–11–2 LAFF U-22 Youth Championship
29 July 2012Phnom Penh Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhMyanmar1–01–0 WAFF U-22 Youth Championship
2 June 2013Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhTimor-Leste1–02–0 WFriendly
5 June 2013Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhTimor-Leste2–03–1 WFriendly
8 June 2013Olympic Stadium, Phnom PenhBrunei1–01–1 DFriendly
22 November 2013Jalan Besar Stadium, SingaporeSingapore0–10–1 WFriendly (SEA Games preparation)
These goals not only helped secure positive results in youth competitions but also underscored Vathanaka's role in building the team's attacking threat, facilitating his seamless transition to senior level play.

Honours

Club

During his time with Boeung Ket Angkor, Chan Vathanaka was instrumental in securing multiple titles, including the 2016 and 2017 championships. In the 2016 season, his prolific scoring—culminating in the Golden Boot award—directly contributed to the team's success, as Boeung Ket finished atop the league standings after defeating National Defense Ministry in the playoff final. The following year, Vathanaka again played a pivotal role in retaining the title, with Boeung Ket edging out the same opponents on penalties in the decisive match. Boeung Ket Angkor won the 2019 Hun Sen Cup, defeating Svay Rieng in the final on penalties, with Vathanaka scoring crucial goals including a in the semi-final against Visakha. Vathanaka's contributions extended to regional competition, where Boeung Ket Angkor reached the final of the 2015 Mekong Club Championship but fell 1–0 to Buriram United. Upon rejoining the club in 2019, he helped secure another title in 2020. With FA in , Vathanaka was part of the squad that won the 2018 Malaysia , defeating 2–0 in the final at to claim the club's third title in the competition. His presence added attacking depth during the successful campaign.

Individual

Chan Vathanaka received the Best Young Player of the Year award in 2012, recognizing his early promise as a rising talent in Cambodian football. He also won the 2013 Hun Sen Cup Golden Boot. In the (CPL), Vathanaka was named (MVP) in 2014, 2015, and 2016, highlighting his consistent dominance as a forward for Boeung Ket Angkor FC. He also claimed the Golden Boot as the league's top scorer in the 2015 and 2016 seasons, with 37 and 22 goals respectively, underscoring his prolific scoring ability. During the 2015 CPL season, he achieved a remarkable record by scoring eight goals in a single match against Kirivong Sok Sen Chey FC on July 11, in a 12–2 victory that exemplified his exceptional finishing. Beyond domestic leagues, Vathanaka earned the MVP award at the 2015 Mekong Club Championship, where he scored five , including a in the semifinals against Becamex Bình Dương, leading Boeung Ket Angkor to the final. That same year, he was honored as Player of the Week by .com for his outstanding performances. In international competition, Vathanaka won the of the award at the 2016 AFF Suzuki for his stunning strike against in the group stage.

Personal life

Family and interests

Chan Vathanaka maintains a low profile regarding his family life, with limited public details available beyond his origins in Kampot province, where relatives have provided ongoing support throughout his career. His father, Chan Chesda, who has served as governor of Kampot province and as for the Ministry of Agriculture, has frequently expressed pride in Vathanaka's accomplishments, describing them as a source of inspiration for the local community and family members in the region. Outside of football, Vathanaka enjoys as a primary relaxation activity, often using it to unwind from the demands of professional play. He also maintains an active presence on under the handle @vathanaka_cv11, where he has amassed 133,000 followers as of November 2025, sharing glimpses into his daily life and motivational content. Vathanaka's posts frequently highlight themes of and personal growth, reflecting his emphasis on mental well-being and resilience in his lifestyle.

Injuries and endorsements

In September 2024, Chan Vathanaka underwent (ACL) surgery performed by the Bangkok Hospital's BASEM team in , where he plays for Boeung Ket Football Club. The procedure addressed a that occurred during club play, requiring him to miss several months of action extending into 2025. Vathanaka's recovery from the ACL surgery has been gradual, with rehabilitation focusing on restoring full mobility and strength. By September 2025, his injury had healed, but he remained in ongoing rehabilitation and was not yet cleared for full or matches with Boeung Ket, impacting his availability at the start of the 2025–26 season. Family members provided support during this period, helping him maintain motivation amid the challenges. Off the field, Vathanaka has served as a for SEATEL, a Cambodian telecommunications company, since January 2016, promoting youth engagement in sports and education. He has also taken on similar roles, such as with Cambodia in 2017, leveraging his prominence to advocate for and . A signature element of Vathanaka's career is his , introduced in October 2015, where he kisses a on his right arm dedicated to his and as a to their support. This gesture has become a consistent across his club and international appearances, symbolizing personal .

References

  1. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vathanaka-chan/profil/spieler/292101
  2. https://www.sofascore.com/football/player/chan-vathanaka/792033
  3. https://www.playmakerstats.com/player/chan-vathanaka/335448
  4. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37540917/cambodia-ace-chan-vathanaka-joins-malaysia-pahang-japan
  5. https://www.transfermarkt.com/vathanaka-chan/erfolge/spieler/292101
  6. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vathanaka-chan/nationalmannschaft/spieler/292101
  7. https://www.aiscore.com/player-chan-vathanaka/wv78xi659mb2krj/trophies
  8. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/60229/vathanaka-agrees-to-japan-transfer/
  9. https://www.besoccer.com/player/vathanaka-chan
  10. https://2009-2017.state.gov/documents/organization/192829.pdf
  11. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2022/countries/cambodia/
  12. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/12135/footballer-chan-vathanaka-to-serve-as-goodwill-ambassador-for-save-the-children/
  13. https://inside.fifa.com/news/cambodia-reviving-historical-passion-for-football
  14. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37623527/aff-suzuki-cup-2020-boasting-plenty-messi-real-deal
  15. https://vietnamnet.vn/en/football-team-aims-to-send-off-coach-with-win-E188042.html
  16. https://www.aiscore.com/player-chan-vathanaka/wv78xi659mb2krj
  17. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/11994/tearful-vathanaka-bids-cambodia-farewell/
  18. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/504171/vathanaka-makes-boeung-ket-return/
  19. https://www.todayonline.com/sports/football/cambodias-messi-targets-promotion-j3-club
  20. https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cambod2016.html
  21. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/57699/vathanaka-hits-eight-as-kirivong-routed-army-win/
  22. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/95506/vathanaka-keen-pull-shooting-boots/
  23. https://global.toyota/en/download/10862463/
  24. https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/vathanaka-signs-fujieda-myfc/
  25. https://favsports.net/japan-football/chan-vathanaka-fujieda-myfc-cambodia-fs
  26. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vathanaka-chan/leistungsdatendetails/spieler/292101
  27. https://football-tribe.com/asia/2017/10/23/cambodian-fans-furious-chan-vathanaka-played-five-minutes-j3-league-debut/
  28. https://football-tribe.com/asia/2017/06/06/chan-vathanaka-learns-adapt-new-life-japan/
  29. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/94887/japan-wasnt-waste-says-vathanaka/
  30. https://www.nst.com.my/sports/football/2017/12/315116/vathanaka-joins-pahang
  31. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/487990/vathanaka-released-by-pahang/
  32. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50569580/vathanaka-to-get-a-second-bite-at-malaysian-cherry/
  33. https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2019/01/19/cambodia-star-chan-vathanaka-joins-pkns-gabi-guerra-returns/
  34. https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2019/04/06/watch-cambodia-striker-chan-vathanaka-scores-in-pkns-fcs-3-2-win-over-melaka-united-in-malaysia-fa-cup/
  35. https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2019/04/15/cambodia-refuses-to-celebrate/
  36. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/613567/vathanaka-re-signs-with-former-champions-boeung-ket/
  37. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501508993/the-striker-duo-to-watch-in-the-2024-25-cpl-season/
  38. https://www.bangkokhospital.com/en/bangkok/content/news-update-chan-vathanaka-acl
  39. https://www.facebook.com/boeungketfootballclub/videos/our-captain-/698257279423622/
  40. https://www.national-football-teams.com/player/51893/Vathanaka_Chan.html
  41. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/55051/vathanaka-leads-cambodia-to-3-0-victory-over-macau/
  42. https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/news/russia_18uae_19_joint_qualifiers_rd1_cambodia_3-0_macau.html
  43. https://english.cambodiadaily.com/2016/11/21/cambodia-squanders-two-leads-malaysia/
  44. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37500387/malaysia-come-win-aff-suzuki-cup-opener-vs-cambodia
  45. https://www.pressreader.com/cambodia/the-phnom-penh-post/20131111/282248073326177
  46. https://www.fas.org.sg/singapore-under-23-b-0-1-cambodia-under-23-b/
  47. https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/sea-games-2013-cambodia-include-french-born-thierry/
  48. https://www.transfermarkt.com/vathanaka-chan/nationalmannschaft/spieler/292101
  49. https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cambodchamp.html
  50. https://sportsmatik.com/sports-stars/chan-vathanaka-1570
  51. https://www.rsssf.org/tablest/toymekong2015.html
  52. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vathanaka-chan/leistungsdaten/spieler/292101
  53. https://www.transfermarkt.com/fa-selangor_fa-pahang/index/spielbericht/4522447
  54. https://fbref.com/en/players/ca527091/goallogs/nat_tm/Chan-Vathanaka-Goal-Log
  55. https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/news/friendlies_round-up_all_the_latest_news.html
  56. https://www.offside.hk/hkteam/hk-vs-cambodia-when-a-win-is-not-enough/
  57. https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/ascq-cambodia-make-final-cut/
  58. https://www.espn.com/soccer/report/_/gameId/476595
  59. https://vietnamnet.vn/en/vietnam-beat-cambodia-in-afc-qualifier-E185889.html
  60. https://www.365scores.com/football/match/friendly-international-570/cambodia-indonesia-6499-16568-570
  61. https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/international-friendlies/cambodia-vs-east-timor_game_85309.html
  62. https://www.national-football-teams.com/matches/report/21104/Myanmar_Cambodia.html
  63. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/552544/cambodia-get-first-aff-suzuki-cup-group-win/
  64. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50949220/asian-cup-cambodia-seeks-repeat-in-second-leg-vs-guam/
  65. https://www.sofascore.com/football/match/laos-cambodia/EidsLuj
  66. https://www.aseanfootball.org/v3/asc2020-all-square-between-indonesia-and-vietnam-vathanaka-on-the-double/
  67. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/644877/vathanaka-hat-trick-buries-visakha/
  68. https://www.sports247.my/pahang-lift-fa-cup-third-time/
  69. https://baonghean.vn/en/doi-tuyen-campuchia-moi-tran-dau-mot-bo-mat-10186845.html
  70. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50887347/vathanaka-stars-as-boeung-ket-picks-second-win-in-a-row/
  71. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/33584/vathanaka-adds-goal-com-award-to-accolades/
  72. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzS4jtaHZo8
  73. https://eacnews.asia/home/details/8186
  74. https://www.instagram.com/vathanaka_cv11/
  75. https://www.instagram.com/vathanaka_cv11/reels/
  76. https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501759683/nestor-eyes-boeung-ket-win-over-isi-despite-injury-setbacks/
  77. http://speakwithfootball.blogspot.com/2016/10/chan-vathanaka-is-one-name-of-best-football-plyer-in-cambodia-football.html
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