Round 1 of the First Division: Excitement right from the start!

Many thrilling moments unfolded in the opening matches of Round 1 in the 2025/2026 First Division season.

Round 1 of the 2025/26 First Division saw a less-than-ideal start for the top contender teams, as they managed only draws or suffered defeats.

The strongest favorite, Truong Tuoi Dong Nai Club, was held to a 2-2 draw at home. Bac Ninh Club, despite significant investment, also failed to secure three points, drawing 0-0 with Thanh Nien Ho Chi Minh City Club. Even more surprisingly, Quang Ninh Club lost 0-1 to PVF-CAND Youth Club, causing the first shock of the Sao Vang Beer National First Division 2025/26.

Two other clubs expected to challenge at the top, Quy Nhon United and Phu Tho, also failed to earn three points on opening day. Quy Nhon United, playing at home, shared points with newcomer Van Hien University. Phu Tho Club “let gold slip away” after being equalized by host Dong Thap in the final minutes.

These outcomes meant no favorite team could claim the top spot after Round 1. Instead, Khatoco Khanh Hoa and PVF-CAND Youth appeared at the summit. The coastal team from Nha Trang won 2-0 against Long An Club, while PVF-CAND Youth defeated Quang Ninh Club. These surprising results in the opening fixtures set the stage for an exciting and intriguing journey ahead as all clubs compete with maximum determination, “knowing themselves and their opponents” to secure the highest points.

The top contenders’ failure to win suggests these clubs still need time to perfect their “winning machines.” Truong Tuoi Dong Nai has rebuilt its coaching staff and added many new faces, blending them with long-standing players. Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh, recently promoted to the First Division, have also undergone significant squad changes.

Quy Nhon United, relegated from V.League 1 to V.League 2, is continuing its “restructuring.” XT Phu Tho seeks stability after personnel adjustments. Therefore, after this initial phase, the contenders may accelerate. The team that completes its lineup earliest will gain an advantage in the race…