Hanoi, April 6, 2025 – A nail-biting 1-0 win over Thai Nguyen T&T propelled Ho Chi Minh City FC to the championship of the 2025 Women’s National Cup. The final pitted Thai Nguyen T&T against Huynh Nhu’s Ho Chi Minh City FC, with the southern side showcasing superior play and control throughout.
The absence of overseas Vietnamese players, including Chelsea Le—who returned to the U.S. and won’t rejoin until May—somewhat hampered Ho Chi Minh City FC’s attack compared to the group stage. In the first half, breaching Thai Nguyen T&T’s well-drilled defense proved tough. Coach Van Thi Thanh knew an aggressive push risked a devastating counterattack, but her defenders couldn’t withstand Ho Chi Minh City FC’s relentless pressure. In the 37th minute, a Thai Nguyen T&T player handled the ball in the box, earning Ho Chi Minh City FC a penalty. Huynh Nhu coolly converted, giving her side a 1-0 lead at the break despite Thai Nguyen T&T’s late efforts.
The second half saw Thai Nguyen T&T tweak their approach, chasing an equalizer. Yet Bich Thuy and her teammates struggled against a resolute Ho Chi Minh City FC. Huynh Nhu’s crew stayed focused, defending their slim lead to clinch the 2025 title—their fourth National Cup, reinforcing their dominance over rivals like Phong Phu Ha Nam and Than KSVN.
The third-place playoff between Than KSVN and Phong Phu Ha Nam kicked off with flair, both teams playing freely and delighting fans with attacking intent. Despite numerous chances, neither side scored in the first 45 minutes. The second half turned fierce, with midfielders trading fouls to thwart breakthroughs, but 90 minutes yielded no goals. In the ensuing penalty shootout, Phong Phu Ha Nam edged Than KSVN 5-4, securing third place.
Ho Chi Minh City FC’s triumph, driven by Huynh Nhu’s clutch penalty, caps a gritty campaign. Thai Nguyen T&T, despite their loss, showed their rising stature under Van Thi Thanh. For Phong Phu Ha Nam, the bronze medal rewards their resilience, setting the stage for a competitive 2025 season ahead.
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