Hanoi, 11 September, 2025 – The draw for the 2025/26 Vietnam National First Division has generated considerable attention after Hoa Binh FC officially withdrew from the competition just days before the new season kicks off. With only 12 teams remaining, the schedule has been restructured to ensure a balanced format, eliminating the bye rounds that were previously in place.
According to the revised draw, Dong Nai will enjoy a favorable start to their campaign with a home fixture against Ho Chi Minh City FC in the opening round. Led by star striker Cong Phuong, Ho Chi Minh City FC are widely tipped as promotion contenders following a busy summer transfer window that saw them reinforce their squad with several high-quality signings.
For Dong Nai, formerly known as Binh Phuoc, the season opener presents a chance to make an early statement. Last year, the club finished runners-up in the First Division, earning a spot in the promotion play-off. However, their dream of reaching the V.League was dashed after a decisive defeat to Da Nang. Now rebranded and regrouped, Dong Nai will be eager to convert last season’s near miss into a successful promotion push.
The absence of Hoa Binh has streamlined the league format. Instead of 13 teams competing across 26 rounds, the 2025/26 First Division will feature 12 clubs and a total of 22 rounds. This adjustment is expected to create a tighter, more competitive season, as each club will now play 22 matches without any mid-season breaks caused by bye rounds.
The 12 participating teams for the new campaign are Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City FC, Bac Ninh, Van Hien University, Dong Thap, Gia Dinh, Khanh Hoa, Long An, Thanh Nien Ho Chi Minh City (formerly HCMC Youth), PVF-CAND, Quang Ninh, and Quy Nhon United.
Despite the reshuffle, the official kickoff date remains unchanged, with the season scheduled to start on September 19, 2025, and conclude in June 2026. The stakes are particularly high this year as the First Division offers two direct promotion spots to the V.League, while the bottom two teams face relegation to the Second Division.
For fans, all eyes will be on the opening-round clash between Dong Nai and Ho Chi Minh City FC, which promises to set the tone for the season. With both clubs determined to secure promotion, the encounter at Dong Nai’s home ground could prove an early highlight in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive First Division seasons in recent memory.
Dang Long – Hong Phuc
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