Hoang Anh Gia Lai and The Cong Viettel are not allowed to participate in the 2024/2025 AFC competitions

The VFF Licensing Committee recently convened and made several significant decisions regarding the upcoming 2024/2025 season.

According to the committee, eight Vietnamese clubs did not meet the necessary standards to be licensed for participation in the 2024/2025 Asian Cups. These clubs are The Cong Viettel, Hai Phong FC, Ho Chi Minh FC, Hoang Anh Gia Lai (HAGL), Binh Dinh, Da Nang, Binh Phuoc, and Khanh Hoa.

Despite their strong performances in the V-League or the National Cup during the 2023/2024 season, these clubs will not be eligible to compete in the upcoming Asian tournaments. The Cong Viettel, for instance, has reached the semifinals of the National Cup and is eager to claim the title. However, even if they emerge as champions, coach Nguyen Duc Thang’s team will not be able to participate in next season’s Asian competitions.

In addition to the disqualified clubs, the VFF Licensing Committee also issued conditional licenses or imposed penalties on several other clubs, including Hanoi Police FC, Hanoi FC, Nam Dinh, SLNA, Thanh Hoa, Ha Tinh, Quang Nam, PVF CAND, and Binh Duong.

Under the AFC regulations, Vietnamese football is allocated two slots for the 2024/2025 Asian Cups: one for the V-League champion and one for the National Cup winner. If these teams fail to obtain the necessary licenses, the slots will be awarded to the highest-ranking teams that meet the eligibility criteria.

This situation poses a significant challenge for Vietnamese clubs as they strive for continental recognition. The clubs that have received conditional licenses or penalties must ensure they meet all requirements to maintain their eligibility for international competitions.

The decision underscores the importance of meeting the stringent criteria set by the AFC, highlighting the need for Vietnamese clubs to enhance their organizational and operational standards to compete on the Asian stage. As the 2023/2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on the licensed clubs to see if they can secure their places in the prestigious 2024/2025 Asian Cups.