Lucca Lim may be one of the youngest players in Cambodia’s squad at the ASEAN U-23 Mandiri Cup™ 2025, but the 18-year-old is eager to play a key role for the Angkor Warriors as they build towards the future.
After impressing for his country at the ASEAN U-19 Boy’s Championship in Surabaya last year, Lim has returned to Indonesia for the Mandiri Cup™ 2025 and he made his U-23 international debut with a solid performance in central midfield as Cambodia drew 1-1 with Laos in their opening game.
Raised in Cambodia and New Zealand, Lim is shaping up to be a rising star of ASEAN football. Ahead of his team’s final Group B game against Vietnam, the 1.82-metre tall midfielder spoke to ASEAN United FC about his influences and ambitions as a football player.
Tell us about your family background and why you chose to play international football for Cambodia?
I am half-Cambodian and half-New Zealander. I lived the first four years of my life in Cambodia and then we moved to New Zealand but, since I was young, I have felt an attachment to Cambodia and this sparked my dream of representing them on the international stage. I have a lot of love for Cambodia, not just the football, but the people and the culture.
When did you start playing football and who were your early football heroes?
I started playing football at five years old. One of my football heroes is Ronaldinho; he was the first player I ever truly watched. Some of other players I like include Didier Drogba, Neymar, and, of course, Lionel Messi, who is the best.
What are your best qualities as a footballer?
I would say that my best qualities as a player are my ball control, my short and long passing, and my ability to create chances.
How do you feel about being given the opportunity as an 18-year-old to play in the Mandiri Cup™ 2025?
I just give thanks to God that I have able to represent the U-23s at 18; it is truly is a dream come true. It's a great honour each time I put on the Cambodian shirt and I just try to do my best to make the country proud.
How would you describe your U-23 debut against Laos?
I think my debut against Laos went well, but there are always things that I can improve. We were unable to score a winner against Laos, who were defensively strong, but we look forward to the next match, which is a tough next game against Vietnam. It is a very important game as it may determine whether we go through to the next round, but we are going to try our best.
What are your ambitions as a footballer?
My ambition is to play at the best possible level that I can manage, whether that’s in Europe or Asia. I also hope to someday win trophies and silverware with the Cambodian National team.
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