Kuala Lumpur, 15 August, 2025 – On the afternoon of August 15, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) conducted the official group-stage draw for the 2025/2026 AFC Champions League Two. The results place Vietnam’s two representatives, Nam Dinh FC and Hanoi Police FC, in challenging groups as they prepare for the continental campaign.
Hanoi Police FC have been drawn into Group E alongside Beijing FC (China), Macarthur FC (Australia) and Tai Po FC (Hong Kong, China). While the group may not feature the heaviest title contenders, it remains a stern test for coach Alexandre Polking’s side, particularly as this is their first-ever appearance in the tournament. To progress, the V.League giants will need to demonstrate consistency and adaptability against unfamiliar opposition.
Meanwhile, Nam Dinh FC find themselves in Group F with Gamba Osaka (Japan), Ratchaburi FC (Thailand) and Eastern FC (Hong Kong, China). Despite being seeded in Pot 2, Nam Dinh have been handed a tricky draw, especially with Japanese powerhouse Gamba Osaka in the mix. The J.League club’s pedigree and experience in continental competition will make them one of the favorites in the group.
However, Nam Dinh enter the competition with valuable experience from last season’s campaign and a squad strengthened significantly during the 2025 summer transfer window. The reigning V.League champions have invested heavily in quality foreign signings, fueling expectations that they can mount a serious push for the knockout rounds.
According to the AFC schedule, the group stage of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/2026 will be played in a home-and-away round-robin format. Matches are set to kick off on September 16 and conclude on December 24, 2025. The Round of 16 is scheduled to take place from February 10 to 19, 2026.
With both Vietnamese clubs determined to make their mark on the continental stage, the draw sets the stage for an exciting campaign. Nam Dinh will aim to leverage their recent experience and squad depth, while Hanoi Police FC will look to surprise on their debut and prove they belong among Asia’s competitive second-tier clubs.
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