Hanoi FC faced significant expectations in their Round of 16 clash against Dong Thap in the 2024/2025 National Cup. As one of the tournament’s top teams, Hanoi FC was heavily favored to secure victory and advance to the next round. However, the match did not unfold as anticipated for the team under coach Duc Tuan.
Fielding a lineup without their strongest players, Hanoi FC opted to rest key figures who had recently returned from the ASEAN Cup 2024. Despite this, the home side dominated the match, maintaining control and creating numerous chances in the first half. However, their inability to convert opportunities into goals left the scoreline unchanged at halftime.
In the second half, Hanoi FC continued to press forward with aggressive attacking play, determined to break the deadlock. Coach Duc Tuan introduced several first-team regulars to increase the team’s attacking potency. Yet, the finishing touch remained elusive, as the hosts squandered multiple scoring opportunities against a resolute Dong Thap defense.
After 90 minutes of regular time, the match ended in a goalless draw, forcing the two teams into a penalty shootout to determine the winner. In the high-pressure shootout, Dong Thap emerged victorious with a 4-3 win, delivering a shocking upset and knocking Hanoi FC out of the competition.
The defeat was a significant blow for Hanoi FC, who had been expected to progress far in the tournament. Meanwhile, Dong Thap’s triumph marked a memorable achievement as they advanced to the quarterfinals, showcasing their resilience and composure under pressure.
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