Hanoi, April 18, 2025 – Ho Chi Minh City FC secured a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Hanoi Police FC in Round 19 of the LP Bank V-League 2024-2025 at Hang Day Stadium on April 18, despite the hosts finishing with nine players after two red cards. The result handed Ho Chi Minh City FC a precious point against the 2023 champions, halting Hanoi Police FC’s chase for the top spot.
Following their 3-1 rout of Hoang Anh Gia Lai, Hanoi Police FC, led by coach Mano Polking, aimed to close the gap on leaders Nam Dinh. However, Ho Chi Minh City FC’s resolute defense, marshaled by coach Phung Thanh Phuong, frustrated the home side. Hanoi Police FC dominated possession in the first half, but their shots—led by Alan Grafite—failed to test goalkeeper Nguyen Manh Cuong. Their woes deepened when young striker Le Van Do exited early with a severe eye injury, leaving them toothless.
The second half saw Hanoi Police FC pile on pressure, but Ho Chi Minh City FC’s deep-lying block held firm, reminiscent of The Cong Viettel’s defensive discipline. The visitors’ counterattacks, sparked by Bui Ngoc Long’s pace, troubled Hanoi Police FC’s backline. In the 70th minute, Phan Van Duc received a straight red card for hauling down Ngoc Long on a breakaway, reducing Hanoi Police FC to 10 men.
Desperate for a breakthrough, Polking introduced Nguyen Quang Hai in the 73rd minute. The playmaker, nursing a minor knock, struggled to spark his usual magic, misplacing key passes. Hanoi Police FC’s hopes faded further in the 88th minute when Nguyen Ngoc Thang earned a second red for a reckless challenge, leaving them with nine players. Ho Chi Minh City FC nearly stole victory in stoppage time, but Tran Manh’s angled shot was smothered by Nguyen Filip.
Despite their control, Hanoi Police FC couldn’t breach Manh Cuong’s goal, managing just two shots on target. Ho Chi Minh City FC’s dogged display, echoing Song Lam Nghe An’s grit in mid-table battles, earned them a deserved point. The draw keeps Hanoi Police FC fifth with 28 points, level with Hong Linh Ha Tinh but trailing on goal difference. Ho Chi Minh City FC remain 10th with 22 points, four clear of the relegation play-off zone.
Phung Thanh Phuong hailed his team’s resilience, while Polking lamented missed chances, eyeing a rebound against Hanoi FC next. Ho Chi Minh City FC now prepare to host Song Lam Nghe An, aiming to build on their defensive steel.
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