Nam Dinh has officially claimed the V-League 2023/2024 championship with a commanding 5-1 victory over Khanh Hoa in round 25, securing the title with one match remaining.
Goals from Hendrio, Rafaelson, and Lucas highlighted the triumph at Thiên Trường Stadium, marking Nam Dinh’s first-ever V-League title and their second national championship in 39 years. The team is also in contention for a domestic double, with a National Cup semi-final against Thanh Hoá on July 4th.
Match Overview
Nam Dinh entered the match needing a win to secure the title, as they led the league with 47 points, four ahead of Binh Dinh. The team’s relentless attack and solid defense have been key factors throughout the season, making them the team with the most wins (15) and the fewest losses (5), tied with Binh Dinh, and the highest-scoring team with 57 goals.
The anticipation was palpable as Thien Truong Stadium opened its gates to a capacity crowd, offering free entry to fans. Despite the rain, supporters from across the region filled the stands well before the 5:00 PM kickoff. Those unable to secure seats watched from outside the stadium, adding to the electric atmosphere.
First Half
Nam Dinh wasted no time asserting their dominance. In the 13th minute, Rafaelson’s incisive through ball split the Khanh Hoa defense, allowing Hendrio to slot the ball into the bottom right corner, despite goalkeeper Vo Ngọc Cường getting a hand to it.
Khanh Hoa, already relegated, struggled to contain Nam Dinh’s relentless pressure. In the 42nd minute, Hendrio’s poorly executed header and a failed clearance by the Khanh Hoa defense presented Rafaelson with a golden opportunity. His initial shot hit the crossbar, but he calmly slotted the rebound with his left foot to double the lead.
Khanh Hoa managed to inject some drama into the match by scoring in first-half stoppage time. Van Tung’s free-kick from the left found Minh Loi, who headed the ball in to narrow the deficit.
Second Half
The second half saw Nam Dinh continue their onslaught as Khanh Hoa’s energy waned. In the 47th minute, Rafaelson completed a stunning diving header from Tô Văn Vũ’s cross, restoring the two-goal cushion.
Rafaelson then sealed his hat-trick in the 83rd minute, skillfully deceiving a defender before firing a left-footed shot past the goalkeeper. This goal marked his 31st of the season, further solidifying his status as the league’s top scorer.
Sandwiched between Rafaelson’s goals was a disallowed header by Van Toan in the 60th minute due to offside. However, in the 80th minute, Hendrio’s perfectly delivered corner kick allowed Lucas Alves to rise above the defense and head the ball into the near post, rounding off the scoring.
Historic Victory
With this emphatic victory, Nam Dinh has amassed 50 points, six clear of Binh Dinh, who drew 1-1 with Binh Duong in a concurrent match. This title marks Nam Dinh’s first V-League championship and their first national title since 1985 when they competed as ‘Ha Nam Ninh industry’ in the A1 National Championship.
Post-Match Reactions
The victory not only secured the V-League title but also set the stage for Nam Dinh to potentially achieve a domestic double. They will face Thanh Hoá in the semi-final of the National Cup on July 4th. After the match, head coach Vu Hong Viet expressed his overwhelming joy, stating, “This is a memorable tournament in my coaching career. The championship will motivate me to continue striving for new successes.”
Foreign player Rafaelson, who was instrumental in the victory, described the atmosphere at Thiên Trường as “crazy.” He added, “It made us determined to do our best to meet the fans’ expectations.”
Nam Dinh’s success story this season is a testament to their consistent performance, tactical acumen, and the unwavering support of their passionate fanbase. As they celebrate their historic achievement, the team can look forward to defending their title next season with the same vigor and determination.
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