Da Nang, April 20, 2025 – Desperate for points but facing formidable leaders Nam Dinh FC, Da Nang FC abandoned their usual attacking flair at Hoa Xuan Stadium on April 20, opting for a disciplined defensive approach under coach Le Duc Tuan. The strategy paid off, earning Da Nang FC a hard-fought 0-0 draw in Round 20 of the LP Bank V-League 2024-2025, narrowing the gap to safety.
Nam Dinh FC, chasing a second straight title, dominated early, aiming to overwhelm Da Nang FC with an aggressive press. However, Da Nang FC’s compact defense, anchored by Bui Tien Dung’s sharp goalkeeping, stifled Nam Dinh FC’s attack. The hosts, typically vibrant at home, leaned on counterattacks, with Nguyen Van Khoi’s 28th-minute break forcing a diving save from Tran Nguyen Manh. The first half ended goalless, with Da Nang FC’s backline, reminiscent of Hanoi Police FC’s resilience, holding firm under pressure.
The second half saw Nam Dinh FC maintain control, peppering Da Nang FC’s box. Coach Vu Hong Viet introduced Nguyen Van Vi and Lam Ti Phong in the 66th minute to boost the attack, but Tien Dung thwarted Van Vi’s 72nd-minute header and Kevin Pham Ba’s curling shot. Da Nang FC, content to absorb pressure, nearly stole the win late. A rare 87th-minute surge saw Tran Van Binh’s shot blocked by Tran Van Cong, but their stretched attack lacked numbers to trouble Nam Dinh FC’s defense.
The 0-0 result delighted Da Nang FC, who cut the gap to 12th-placed Binh Dinh FC—outside the relegation play-off spot—to five points with 17 points. For Nam Dinh FC, the draw leaves their lead precarious. With 35 points, they hold a slim two-point edge over Hanoi FC, whose four-game winning streak under Makoto Teguramori signals danger. The upcoming Round 21 clash between Nam Dinh FC and Hanoi FC at Thien Truong could prove decisive in the title race, echoing The Cong Viettel’s high-stakes battles.
Da Nang FC’s point, their second under Tuan since he replaced Cristiano Roland in February, boosts morale ahead of a crucial trip to Song Lam Nghe An. Nam Dinh FC, frustrated by their failure to convert 62% possession, must regroup to fend off Hanoi FC and Thanh Hoa FC, who trail closely. The draw underscores Da Nang FC’s survival fight, contrasting Hoang Anh Gia Lai’s mid-table struggles.
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