Australia, 6 November 2025 – Despite a strong performance, Hanoi Police FC suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat against Macarthur FC in the fourth round of Group E at the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26, losing their lead in the standings to the Australian club.
Vietnam’s representative Hanoi Police FC faced a tough challenge on Australian soil, falling 1-2 to Macarthur FC in a tightly contested match on November 6. The result saw the reigning V.League 1 champions slip to second place in Group E of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26.
The game began unfavorably for Hanoi Police FC as their defense showed early signs of vulnerability. In the 21st minute, Sime Grzan capitalized on poor marking to tap in from close range, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead. However, the Vietnamese side responded quickly. Just nine minutes later, Leygley Adou pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area to fire home the equalizer, restoring balance and momentum for the visitors.
In the second half, Hanoi Police FC pressed higher and dominated possession, creating several dangerous chances through Nguyen Quang Hai, Nguyen Dinh Bac, and China. Yet, their finishing touch was lacking, with several shots going narrowly wide or being denied by the woodwork.
Their missed opportunities proved costly. In the 75th minute, Anthony Caceres unleashed a powerful long-range strike that deflected off Stefan Mauk, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and finding the back of the net to put Macarthur FC ahead 2-1.
In the final minutes, coach Alexandre Polking’s men pushed forward with full intensity, throwing everything into attack. However, the Australian defense held firm, and Hanoi Police FC were unable to find a late equalizer, ultimately leaving the field in frustration.
With this defeat, Hanoi Police FC remain on 5 points after 4 matches, slipping to second place behind Macarthur FC, who now top Group E with 7 points. The Vietnamese club will need a strong response in their remaining group fixtures to keep their hopes of advancing to the Round of 16 alive.
VSN collaborator writer
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