Nam Dinh set high expectations for the National Cup this season, but Coach Vu Hong Viet and his squad were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Becamex Binh Duong after a tense penalty shootout.
Despite being considered the stronger team with the advantages of home ground and well-prepared forces, the hosts at Thien Truong Stadium could not break through the resilient defense of Binh Duong. Nam Dinh started with determination, controlling the match and mounting consistent attacks in search of victory. However, the failure to capitalize on opportunities led them to fall victim to football’s unforgiving nature: allowing their opponent to score first.
In the 66th minute, Tran Trung Hieu struck decisively to give Becamex Binh Duong a crucial 1-0 lead, boosting the confidence of Que Ngoc Hai and his teammates as they held firm at Thien Truong.
When it seemed the match would end 1-0, a dramatic turn came in the 90+10 minute. Nam Dinh’s relentless effort paid off when Caio Cesar converted a penalty after Que Ngoc Hai committed a foul in the box. The 1-1 draw sent the match to a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
In the shootout, Nam Dinh missed two crucial penalties, while Becamex Binh Duong maintained their composure, winning 5-4 on penalties to advance to the next round.
This victory propels Binh Duong further in the competition, while Nam Dinh faces yet another disappointing exit from the National Cup. The remaining seven matches of the Round of 16 will take place on January 11, 12, and 14, with the final match between Dong A Thanh Hoa and Hai Phong scheduled for March 4.
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