Hà Nội FC achieved a straightforward 3-1 win against SLNA in the 12th V-League round, even while playing with fewer players for the majority of the game.
With a squad considered superior, Hà Nội FC quickly asserted their dominance right after the opening whistle during their away match at SLNA’s stadium. The capital team took control of the game, imposed their playing style, and soon made a difference through well-organized attacks.
Within the first 25 minutes, Hà Nội FC scored twice against the home team. The early opening goal gave the coach’s players a psychological edge, while SLNA’s defense showed many gaps and lacked stability. The home side’s lines were constantly stretched, unable to keep up with the opponent’s fast movement and combination play.
For most of the first half, Hà Nội FC dominated completely, controlling the midfield and hardly giving SLNA any clear counterattack opportunities. The home team mainly had to withstand continuous pressure from both wing and central attacks by the visitors.
In the second half, the dynamics shifted somewhat as SLNA pushed their line higher and played more aggressively. The Nghệ An representatives increased aerial plays, using their physicality and heading ability to pressure Hà Nội FC’s defense. However, most of SLNA’s attempts were either inaccurate or neutralized by the visitors’ defense.
It was only in the final minutes that the home team’s relentless efforts paid off. From a rebound after a shot hit the crossbar, Mạnh Quỳnh quickly rushed in to score a follow-up goal, reducing the deficit for SLNA. Nonetheless, the remaining time was insufficient for the home team to cause an upset.
In the end, Hà Nội FC won 3-1 over SLNA with a convincing performance, demonstrating superiority in squad strength and game control, while SLNA, despite their hard work, revealed clear defensive weaknesses.
Moore took a shot that hit the crossbar. Immediately, Mạnh Quỳnh sprinted in to finish and cut the score to 1-3.
Hoàng Hên made a through ball, but Fernando couldn’t reach the ball.
71': HOME TEAM PUSHING HARD
SLNA has been playing aerial balls continuously recently. Garcia headed close-range, but the ball went straight to Văn Chuẩn’s position.
63': 3-0 FOR HÀ NỘI FC
From a quick counterattack, Hai Long delivered a good pass to Da Silva who rushed in to score against the opponent.
56': NOT A GOAL
Receiving a pass from a teammate, Olaha controlled the ball expertly then fired a powerful shot toward Văn Chuẩn’s goal, but the ball missed the post.
After a very dangerous tackle on a yellow-shirted player, the referee reviewed VAR and decided to issue a red card to Hà Nội FC’s captain.
The visitors repeatedly earned corner kicks. Just now, from a free-kick, Xuân Mạnh leapt to head but the ball sailed over the crossbar.
Hoàng Hên played a brilliant through ball for Hùng Dũng who faced goalkeeper Văn Bình and easily placed the ball into the net with a well-measured shot.
Hà Nội FC earned a corner kick. Đỗ Hoàng Hên sent the ball directly toward the goal, but Văn Bình successfully punched it away.
Not surprisingly, Hà Nội has completely controlled the game from the start of the tournament. Meanwhile, SLNA has only managed one coordinated attacking move so far.
From a cross into the penalty area, Hai Long decided to shoot beautifully, leaving Văn Bình unable to stop it.
In the first minute, Hà Nội FC put the ball into Cao Văn Bình’s net. Nascimento crossed sharply from the left to the newcomer Fisher who advanced to shoot. However, the referee ruled it offside.
Entering round 12 after a long break, SLNA shows little change in personnel. The Vinh home team remains loyal to a core mostly composed of young, energetic players who have yet to mature fully in competitive temperament. The most notable highlight recently is goalkeeper Cao Văn Bình, who impressed strongly with the Vietnam U23 team.
However, facing an experienced opponent like Hà Nội FC in the V-League is considered a major challenge, not only for Văn Bình but also for the entire defensive system of the Nghệ An team.
On the other hand, Hà Nội FC returned to domestic competition better prepared. Their training camp in Thailand allowed the capital team to review the squad, refine tactical plays, and improve fitness. Although currently outside the top ranks and trailing Ninh Bình by points, coach Harry Kewell’s team must maintain pressure in the title race. In this context, every match is a "must-win," and the away trip to Vinh is no exception.
Comparing squad strength, Hà Nội FC appears superior in most areas. Balanced player quality, squad depth, and experience in big matches give the visitors better control over the game. Conversely, SLNA, despite home advantage and fighting spirit, often struggles against teams that can impose their style.
In reality, SLNASLNA has had many disciplined and hardworking matches, but their chronic weakness remains the ability to sustain consistency over 90 minutes. Against a Hà Nội FC team rated higher in all aspects, SLNA’s chances of causing an upset at home are slim without extraordinary factors.