Ninh Binh, 25 September, 2025 – Nam Dinh FC will begin their ASEAN Club Championship 2025-2026 campaign with a home fixture against Cambodian champions PKR Svay Rieng on September 24 at Thien Truong Stadium. Ahead of the highly anticipated clash, head coach Vu Hong Viet struck a balance between caution and confidence when assessing his team’s prospects.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Nam Dinh boss first took time to thank the club’s passionate supporters. “We are very grateful for the love our fans have shown the team. Whether at home or away, they always support us wholeheartedly. This is a huge source of motivation for the players to give their best on the pitch. On behalf of the team, I want to thank all Nam Dinh fans,” he said.
Turning to the challenge ahead, Vu Hong Viet acknowledged the quality of Svay Rieng, who are regarded as one of Cambodia’s most consistent clubs. “Svay Rieng are a strong team with several quality foreign players, especially two strikers who are in very good form. It will not be easy to face them and we may encounter difficulties. However, our goal is still three points in this opening match. We have prepared plans to limit their attacking threats,” he explained.
Nam Dinh, nicknamed “The Green Steel,” are entering the match on the back of a setback in domestic competition, having recently lost to Ninh Binh in V.League 1. Coach Vu insisted that despite the defeat, there were positives to take. “In the last V.League match we did not achieve the desired result, but the players executed the game plan well and showed great spirit. After the match, we held a team meeting to review and learn from it, and we will be even more determined in this next game,” he added.
Defender Lucas Alves, wearing the number 4 shirt, echoed his coach’s words about focus and unity. “We don’t have much time to prepare because of a busy schedule, but we have studied Svay Rieng carefully. The whole team is committed to sticking together and following the tactical plan of the coaching staff. Winning is the ultimate objective, and our philosophy is to prioritize attacking football. Of course, keeping a clean sheet is important, but above all we must fight for victory,” he emphasized.
The match promises to be a stern test for Nam Dinh, who recently dethroned Hanoi Police FC to claim the V.League 1 title. Facing the Cambodian champions on home turf provides a chance to regain momentum and send an early statement in continental competition. With Thien Truong expected to be packed with loyal supporters, Nam Dinh are determined to begin their ASEAN Club Championship journey on the front foot.
Kim Tuyen
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