Defeating Ninh Binh, Becamex Binh Duong advances to the semifinals of the National Cup

Binh Duong – In a gripping National Cup 2024/2025 quarterfinal clash at Go Dau Stadium, Binh Duong overcame Ninh Binh 2-2 (5-4 on penalties) after a rollercoaster match that saw Ninh Binh’s late comeback force a shootout. Opting for a defensive counterattacking approach, the visitors weathered early pressure before a dramatic finish handed Binh Duong the semifinal berth.

The game began cautiously, with Binh Duong controlling possession in the first 10 minutes but finding little space against Ninh Binh’s compact setup. Despite their limited ball time, Ninh Binh struck first with danger in the 12th minute—Dinh Thanh Binh’s cross found Gia Hung unmarked in the box, only for his wayward shot to squander a golden chance. Binh Duong responded in the 30th minute when Viet Cuong’s quick strike from the edge of the area narrowly missed. Late in the half, Minh Trong’s crafty free kick near the box forced a sharp save from Dang Van Lam, keeping it 0-0 at the break.

The second half ignited with Binh Duong ramping up their threat. In the 54th minute, a left-wing cross ricocheted off the post, and Nguyen Tien Linh fluffed a 5-meter rebound, blasting it skyward. Six minutes later, Viet Cuong’s effort from a right-sided move was brilliantly denied by Dang Van Lam. The breakthrough arrived in the 68th minute—Viet Cuong’s clever backheel teed up Nguyen Tien Linh, whose venomous shot beat Dang Van Lam for a 1-0 lead. Just four minutes later, Trung Hieu’s shot was parried by Dang Van Lam into Vo Hoang Minh Khoa’s path, who slotted home from close range. After a VAR check, the 2-0 scoreline stood.

Ninh Binh roared back in the 84th minute. Hai Duc rose high to head a right-wing cross into the far corner, beyond Minh Toan’s reach, making it 2-1. The drama peaked in the 94th minute when Minh Toan fouled in the box. VAR confirmed a penalty, and Hoang Duc coolly chipped a Panenka to level it at 2-2. In the ensuing shootout, Hai Duc’s miss proved decisive—Binh Duong converted all five attempts to win 5-4.

Nguyen Tien Linh and Viet Cuong’s flair, paired with Dang Van Lam’s heroics, lit up a match defined by late twists. Binh Duong advances, while Ninh Binh rues missed chances in a contest that showcased both teams’ grit and flair.