Phnom penh: As late-night World Cup action leaves football fans sleep-deprived, Cambodia's Acting Head of State, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, has urged citizens to exercise extra caution on the roads, warning that fatigue significantly increases the risk of traffic accidents.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, in a Facebook post on Tuesday, Samdech Techo Hun Sen remarked on the unpredictable nature of the tournament, noting that the sport has once again proven "the ball is round" after two traditionally powerhouse European teams were eliminated by South American and North African underdogs - leaving many local bettors disappointed.

The Acting Head of State pointed out that the ongoing tournament has severely disrupted daily routines in Cambodia, as most matches broadcast deep into the night and early morning local time. 'During the 2026 World Cup, many people who work in the morning are less energetic because they stay up late watching football," Samdech Techo Hun Sen wrote. "The matches kick off after midnight and continue until around 10 a.m.'

With football fever gripping the nation despite the grueling time difference, Samdech Techo Hun Sen strongly urged drivers of all vehicles to prioritize safety and avoid getting behind the wheel while drowsy.