Life Sihanoukville vs National Defense Prediction at 18-01-2026

Team Analysis

Life Sihanoukville

Currently sitting mid-table, Life Sihanoukville has shown flashes of brilliance mixed with bouts of inconsistency. With a recent form showing two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five matches, their overall record this season stands at 7 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses. Key player, striker Lin Saroth, has been pivotal, contributing crucial goals and assists, while their solid midfield, orchestrated by Yathorn Phren, provides the needed creativity.

However, defensive frailties have been exposed in tight matches, with the club conceding 22 goals this season. The absence of their primary center-back, Chen Sovan, due to injury, could exacerbate this issue against a well-organized attack.

National Defense

On the other end, National Defense enters this match with a slight upper hand, boasting a better recent form of three wins, one draw, and just one loss in their last five outings. Their current season record is 9 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses. The team’s pivotal figure, midfielder Touch Chheang, shines with his ability to disrupt opposition plays while facilitating quick transitions to attack.

Moreover, National Defense has shown resilience in defense, conceding only 18 goals thus far. Their chemistry has grown with the return of veteran defender Hong Phat, who recently came back from injury and has provided stability at the back. A consistent goal-scoring presence remains a concern, as top scorer Chanra Khem has been inconsistent, but the squad depth offers potential surprises.

Statistics and Matchup Analysis

• Head-to-Head Records: In their last five meetings, National Defense has had the upper hand, winning 3 times, while Life Sihanoukville managed just a solitary victory with one match ending in a draw.
• Season Performance: As of this match date, Life Sihanoukville sits at 5th in the league, with 26 points, while National Defense is positioned 3rd with 30 points.
• Goals Scored/Conceded: Life Sihanoukville has scored 28 goals and conceded 22, whereas National Defense has netted 31 goals while conceding 18.

Contextual Factors

This match will take place at the vibrant National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh, known for its passionate home crowd that could provide a significant boost to National Defense. Weather conditions are expected to be clear, a potential advantage for both teams as they favor a fast-paced game without adverse elements influencing play.

Injuries are a major factor here. Life Sihanoukville will miss their standout center-back, which could significantly weaken their backline, while National Defense will hope to keep a fully fit squad, albeit with Chanra Khem’s form being a point of concern.

Predictions and Insights

Taking into account the recent form, head-to-head history, and the impact of the home crowd, a tight contest is expected. However, National Defense's balanced attack and superior form suggest they may edge this matchup with a narrow victory.

Prediction: Life Sihanoukville 1 - 2 National Defense. Expect a competitive game with National Defense seizing the initiative, capitalizing on defensive lapses from Life Sihanoukville.

For betting enthusiasts, a wager on National Defense to win could provide solid returns, and considering the goals scored by both sides, betting on over 2.5 goals in the match could also be a promising option with expected odds favoring this outcome.