On the day Hà Nội FC unveiled coach Harry Kewell and naturalized recruit Đỗ Hoàng Hên, it was actually Hoàng Đức, the holder of two Vietnamese Ballon d'Or awards, who impressed the crowd at Hàng Đẫy with a high-class display leading Ninh Bình to a delightful win.
On the evening of October 18, the 7th round of the 2025 V-League featured a headline match between Hà Nội FC and Ninh Bình. This was the debut for coach Harry Kewell and the naturalized player Đỗ Hoàng Hên with the capital club. Despite controlling the game and creating numerous chances, Hà Nội suffered a disappointing 1-2 defeat to Ninh Bình, where Hoàng Đức shone brilliantly.
Hà Nội started energetically with consecutive shots from Hai Long and Luiz Fernando, but luck was not on their side as the ball struck the post twice. In the second half, the home team continued to press, but the familiar scenario of “attacking a lot without scoring will come at a cost” unfolded again. The one who left the Hàng Đẫy crowd speechless was none other than Hoàng Đức. The Ninh Bình captain repeatedly showcased classy moves that created scoring chances, including an exceptional solo run from midfield.
In the 65th minute, the Ninh Bình midfielder displayed a signature individual skill. He won the ball inside his own penalty area from a poor pass by Luiz Fernando, then dribbled past several Hà Nội players. Hoàng Đức skillfully bypassed Fernando, Vũ Đình Hai, and Thành Chung before delivering a perfect pass to Gustavo Henrique, though the shot was denied by goalkeeper Văn Hoàng.
But Ninh Bình did not have to wait long to celebrate again as Hoàng Đức made a direct impact minutes later. In the 69th minute, he executed a perfectly placed corner kick that found Daniel’s head to open the scoring at 1-0 for Ninh Bình. Then at the 80th minute, from another corner by Hoàng Đức, the ball bounced to Quốc Việt who unleashed a classy long-range shot to extend the lead to 2-0.
Hà Nội pushed hard in the final minutes and reduced the deficit to 1-2 thanks to Xuân Tú’s goal, but their efforts were not enough to secure any points. Notably, the naturalized newcomer Đỗ Hoàng Hên had an active game, moving widely and trying to create chances, but was unable to help Hà Nội keep a point at Hàng Đẫy.
While attention focused on Hoàng Hên, it was Hoàng Đức who truly captured all the spotlight. Could this brilliant display be the turning point for Ninh Bình to continue their rise in this year’s V-League?