Ninh Binh, 18 August, 2025 – The opening round of the 2025/26 V.League on August 17 delivered excitement across four fixtures, as fans witnessed both familiar powerhouses and league newcomers making their marks.
At Pleiku Stadium, Hoang Anh Gia Lai hosted Ho Chi Minh FC in a match that quickly drew attention due to heavy rain before kickoff. The waterlogged pitch created difficulties for both teams, but it was the visitors who adapted better as the game unfolded.
The first half saw Hoang Anh Gia Lai start more aggressively, pressing forward with several dangerous chances. In the 37th minute, Ho Tuan Tai fell inside the penalty box under a challenge from Phan Du Hoc. After consulting VAR, the referee awarded a penalty to Hoang Anh Gia Lai. On the spot, Minh Trong struck a low, precise effort that sent goalkeeper Trung Kien the wrong way, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead.
However, the momentum shifted after halftime. Ho Chi Minh FC regrouped and displayed superior finishing. Just minutes into the second half, Nguyen Van Anh equalized with a composed strike. The visitors then surged ahead with Origbaajo Ismaila finding the net, before Van Anh struck again to seal his brace. The final whistle confirmed a convincing 3-0 away victory for Ho Chi Minh FC, who made a strong statement to begin the new campaign.
Elsewhere, PVF-CAND, one of the league’s two promoted clubs, impressed in their debut with a 2-1 home victory over Song Lam Nghe An. The young squad showed maturity in front of their fans and demonstrated that they intend to be more than just participants this season.
Ninh Binh FC, another newly promoted side, also earned three points in dramatic fashion. Playing away against Hong Linh Ha Tinh, Ninh Binh came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory. The result not only marked a successful return to the top division but also highlighted their attacking firepower, which could make them a dangerous opponent for established teams throughout the season.
In the final match of the day, Thanh Hoa battled Da Nang in a tight contest that ended 1-1. Da Nang opened the scoring through David, but Thanh Hoa responded strongly, with Ngoc My equalizing to rescue a valuable point on home turf. Both teams showed flashes of quality but will need to improve their consistency if they hope to challenge for higher positions in the league standings.
With victories from both PVF-CAND and Ninh Binh FC, this round marked a rare occasion where both promoted sides secured opening wins. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh FC’s dominant display against Hoang Anh Gia Lai added another twist to what promises to be a thrilling V.League 1 – 2025/26 season.
Kim Tuyen
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