Tran Tien
Football Tribe Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City continued their fine start to the season with a 2-0 win over Viettel at home. Goals from defender Nguyen Huu Tuan and striker Joel helped Ho Chi Minh City pick up 16 points after just 6 matches and remain unbeaten from the start of the season.
Hanoi FC returned to their best when they beat Hai Phong 3-1 at home in the Hand Day Stadium. During the match, Hai Phong’s fans threw a lot of flares and fireworks onto the pitch, creating a vibrant atmosphere but tough conditions for the players.
Hanoi FC had the chance to open the scoring in the first half from the penalty spot, but striker Omar Faye was unable to convert. That mistake would come back to haunt them in the early stages of the second half, as defender Hoai Duong put the visitors in the lead with a header.
After conceding the goal, Hanoi FC brought on Hoang Vu Samson. The veteran striker became his team’s hero as he netted a brace before Quang Hai sealed the win for the hosts in injury time.
Elsewhere, Thanh Hoa failed to get their first win of the season and conceded a late goal in the match against Sanna Khanh Hoa. Last year’s runners up only managed a 2-2 draw and still stand at the bottom of the table with only 3 points. Lastly, Nam Dinh FC earned an important win over Becamex Binh Duong to collect 6 points after 6 matches.