Ninh Binh, 9 August, 2025 – The 2024/25 National Super Cup delivered a thrilling spectacle at Thien Truong Stadium, where Hanoi Police FC edged hosts Nam Dinh 3-2 in a dramatic contest decided deep into stoppage time.
Both sides began at a high tempo right from the first whistle. Nam Dinh’s Ly Cong Hoang Anh squandered a golden chance just 45 seconds in, failing to beat goalkeeper Nguyen Filip in a one-on-one. Moments later, Phan Van Duc volleyed over from close range, leaving Hanoi Police FC fans frustrated.
The tense first half saw opportunities at both ends. Alan Grafite played a precise through ball for Leo Artur, but the Brazilian’s tame effort was denied by goalkeeper Nguyen Manh. Nam Dinh responded with a dangerous left-footed cross from Lam Ti Phong, which cut across the face of goal but eluded both Tuan Anh and Brenner, who narrowly missed making contact.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 38th minute. Alan Grafite expertly controlled the ball past defender Duc Huy, dribbled around goalkeeper Nguyen Manh, and slotted in with his left foot to give Hanoi Police FC a 1-0 lead.
Nam Dinh made an immediate impact in the second half with the introduction of towering 2.06m striker Kyle Hudlin. Within a minute of coming on, Hudlin headed home to level the score at 1-1 in the 53rd minute, igniting the home crowd.
The equaliser energised Nam Dinh, but Hanoi Police FC created the clearer chances. In the 74th minute, Le Van Do’s low cross from the right caused chaos in the Nam Dinh defence, leading to a handball penalty being awarded. However, after a VAR review, referee Mai Xuan Hung overturned the decision.
The match reached a dramatic climax in stoppage time. In the 90+3rd minute, after Mahmoud Eid missed an open goal for Nam Dinh, Hanoi Police FC punished them swiftly. Leo Artur showcased his skill with a dazzling dribble past two defenders before finishing clinically with the inside of his right foot to restore the lead at 2-1.
Five minutes later, Nguyen Dinh Bac extended the advantage with a superb strike, making it 3-1.
Nam Dinh refused to give up and were awarded a penalty in the 90+12th minute after VAR confirmed a foul by Hugo Gomes on Hudlin inside the box. Hudlin converted from the spot in the 90+16th minute to reduce the deficit, but it was too late to prevent Hanoi Police FC from lifting the Super Cup.
With a 3-2 victory, Hanoi Police FC claimed the 2024/25 National Super Cup, making a strong statement ahead of the new V.League 1 season.
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