Ninh Binh, 5 November 2025 – V.League 1 defending champions Nam Dinh FC will face a major challenge when they host Gamba Osaka at Thien Truong Stadium at 19:15 on November 5 in the fourth round of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26. A draw would help them stay in contention, while a two-goal win could lift them to the top of Group F.
The AFC Champions League Two (East Zone) 2025/26 continues today with key fixtures across the region. In Group F, Nam Dinh FC, representing Vietnamese football, will take on Japanese giants Gamba Osaka in a highly anticipated clash at Thien Truong Stadium.
After three rounds, Nam Dinh currently sit second in the group with six points, trailing Gamba Osaka by three. A victory by two or more goals would not only avenge their 1-3 defeat in Osaka but also send the reigning V.League 1champions to the top of the table — an important step toward the knockout stages.
However, the task ahead will be anything but easy. Gamba Osaka, one of Japan’s most consistent and experienced clubs, have had a 10-day break to recover and prepare, while Nam Dinh have endured a packed domestic schedule, including two demanding V.League 1 fixtures in recent weeks. Despite the passionate home atmosphere at Thien Truong, the Vietnamese side will need an extraordinary performance to overcome the odds.
Assistant coach Andre Lima acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match but expressed confidence in his team’s preparation. “This will be a tough game. We know Gamba Osaka are strong and one of the favourites to advance from this group,” Lima said during the pre-match press conference. “However, we’ve trained hard all week with great intensity and focus. We are confident the whole team will deliver their best performance.”
He also attributed recent struggles to injuries and fitness concerns within the squad, while confirming that Nam Dinh will finally have most of their key players available for selection. “We’ve faced a difficult period with many injuries, but the team is improving. We’ll try to make full use of our home advantage,” he added.
The home crowd at Thien Truong Stadium, known for its passionate and vibrant atmosphere, is expected to play a vital role in motivating Nam Dinh as they face the technically superior Japanese side.
If Nam Dinh manage to secure at least a point, they will consolidate their second-place position and maintain a strong chance of progressing to the Round of 16. But a victory — especially by a two-goal margin — would be a major statement for Vietnamese football in the continental arena.
The crucial encounter between Nam Dinh FC and Gamba Osaka kicks off at 19:15 (local time) on November 5 at Thien Truong Stadium, promising an intense and emotional night for Vietnamese fans.
Kim Tuyen
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