Hanoi Police FC fined by AFC after on-field altercation

During the V.League 1 break, Hanoi Police FC (CAHN) received disciplinary action from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), following incidents that occurred in their AFC Champions League Two campaign. The reigning Vietnam National Cup champions have been competing across multiple fronts this season, including two international tournaments: the AFC Champions League Two and the ASEAN Club Championship (Cúp C1 Đông Nam Á). While domestic football pauses, the club has remained active in continental competition.

According to the latest announcement, AFC has imposed a 5,000 USD fine on Hanoi Police FC due to the involvement of their players in an on-field altercation during the match against Beijing FC on 18 September in the AFC Champions League Two. The incident unfolded in the 80th minute after a clash between Rogerio Alves and He Yupeng on the left sideline, near the halfway line.

The Beijing FC defender initially fell outside the pitch but appeared to deliberately move back into the field of play, seemingly obstructing Hanoi Police FC’s attempt to launch a quick transition. This triggered a heated confrontation, with players from both sides rushing toward the scene. Tensions escalated further as home supporters threw water bottles onto the pitch, causing the match to be halted for nearly 10 minutes.

Following a review of the incident, AFC fined both teams equally: 5,000 USD for Hanoi Police FC and 5,000 USD for Beijing FC. The disciplinary ruling highlights AFC’s stance on maintaining order and sportsmanship in continental competitions, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the flashpoint.

Hanoi Police FC are preparing to face Beijing FC once again in the return fixture of the AFC Champions League Two. The rematch will take place on 27 November at Hang Day Stadium, where the Vietnamese club aims to show improved discipline on the field while fighting for a strong result in front of home supporters.

Mai Huong