Ninh Binh, 2 October 2025 – Ninh Binh and The Cong Viettel played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in their V.League 1 2025/26 encounter, a match marked by red cards, a penalty, and resilient play from both sides.
The visitors, The Cong Viettel, entered the game with confidence and started brightly despite playing away from home. Their early pressure forced Ninh Binh into a defensive stance, with coach Popov’s men looking more likely to break the deadlock in the opening stages.
However, the game turned on its head in the 34th minute. A lapse of concentration in Viettel’s midfield allowed the ball to find Gustavo, Ninh Binh’s powerful striker. Bursting into the penalty area, Gustavo forced a one-on-one situation with goalkeeper Van Viet, only to be pulled back by defender Bui Tien Dung. The foul was clear, and referee Manh Hai had no hesitation in awarding a penalty and issuing a straight red card to the Viettel captain.
On the spot, Duc Chien calmly slotted home to give Ninh Binh a 1-0 lead, leaving The Cong Viettel with the uphill task of chasing the game with only ten men.
Despite the setback, Viettel showed commendable spirit in the second half. Their Brazilian forward Lucao played a key role in the equalizer, using his strength and skill to hold off defenders before delivering a clever pass into the box. Substitute Dinh Xuan Tien, who had just come on, seized the opportunity with a precise strike into the top corner, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 68th minute.
The final stages saw tempers flare and fatigue take hold. Ninh Binh were also reduced to ten men when Geovane received his second booking late in the match. With both sides down to ten players, the game opened up, but neither team was able to capitalize. Viettel came close through Lucao’s determined runs, while Ninh Binh threatened from set pieces, yet the decisive goal never arrived.
The draw means both teams share the points, though the result may feel like a missed opportunity for Ninh Binh, who had the numerical advantage for much of the game. For The Cong Viettel, however, the comeback demonstrated their resilience and ability to compete even in adversity.
This result keeps Ninh Binh near the top of the V.League 1 standings, while The Cong Viettel continue to show consistency as they balance domestic commitments with their ambitions in the Cup competitions. With both teams eyeing strong finishes this season, the clash served as a reminder of the fine margins and dramatic twists that define Vietnamese football’s top flight.
Kim Tuyen
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