The Vietnamese football scene sprang back into action with the kickoff of the V-League 2024/2025 season, and the opening round was rife with surprising results. Several highly-rated teams failed to secure positive outcomes, notably last season’s titleholders Nam Dinh and Thanh Hoa, both of whom suffered defeats.
Nam Dinh faced significant challenges in their away match against Ha Tinh due to the absence of their key player, Rafaelson Fernandes. Registered under the naturalized name Nguyen Xuan Son, Rafaelson was unavailable for the season opener as his paperwork was not finalized. His absence markedly affected the attacking prowess of the reigning V-League champions.
Without their most dangerous forward, Nam Dinh’s offense lacked sharpness. The midfield struggled to create effective attacking opportunities, failing to connect with the frontline. Their inability to penetrate Ha Tinh’s defense was evident throughout the match.
Compounding their offensive struggles, Nam Dinh conceded a goal from a high ball situation, underscoring vulnerabilities in their defense. Head coach Vu Hong Viet now faces the pressing task of addressing the team’s offensive shortcomings, especially if Rafaelson’s naturalization process remains incomplete in the coming rounds.
Similarly, Thanh Hoa, the reigning National Cup champions, did not fare well despite playing at home and securing an early lead. Following an unexpected power outage, the team’s previously tight-knit gameplay unraveled. The injury-induced departure of key striker Rimario further hampered their performance.
Defensive lapses proved costly for Thanh Hoa. Nguyen Tien Linh capitalized on their weaknesses, netting a brace that propelled Binh Duong to a 2-1 comeback victory. This win temporarily eases the pressure on head coach Hoang Anh Tuan, as Binh Duong had made significant roster enhancements during the 2024 summer transfer window.
Arguably the most impressive team of the opening round was HAGL (Hoang Anh Gia Lai). After a disappointing previous season where they frequently hovered near the relegation zone, and with minimal reinforcements during the 2024 summer, expectations were tempered among their supporters.
Defying the skeptics, HAGL delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Quang Nam. The team adopted an aggressive approach from the outset, seeking an early advantage. New signing Marciel made an immediate impact, scoring the opening goal and demonstrating excellent synergy with his teammates.
Marciel’s performance was a highlight; he not only scored a brace but also showcased a range of technical skills that energized the team’s play. His seamless integration suggests that he could be a pivotal figure for HAGL this season.
Adding to the celebratory mood, 16-year-old Tran Gia Bao marked his V-League debut with a goal. HAGL’s commitment to fostering young talent paid dividends, and the decision to entrust academy graduates with significant roles appears vindicated.
This emphatic win provides a morale boost for HAGL and reassures fans about the club’s direction. By blending youthful exuberance with strategic acquisitions like Marciel, HAGL may well exceed expectations this season.
As the V-League 2024/2025 season unfolds, the opening round has already set an unpredictable tone. The early upsets and standout performances hint at a competitive and thrilling campaign ahead, keeping fans eagerly anticipating the next set of fixtures.
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