Without Công Phượng, Đồng Nai disappoints by allowing opponent to draw

Trường Tươi Đồng Nai Football Club caused disappointment after drawing 1-1 against PVF-CAND Youth in the 9th round of the First Division.

Although favored before kickoff, Trường Tươi Đồng Nai failed to secure the full 3 points, settling for a 1-1 draw against PVF-CAND Youth.

Coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng’s squad started with determination to extend their impressive run but quickly showed difficulties in organizing their play. The absence of key players such as Công Phượng and the "goal machine" Lưu Tự Nhân created challenges for the visitors in controlling midfield and launching attacks. Facing the opponent’s fast, physically intense pressing, the home team couldn’t dominate the game as expected.

In the first half, Trường Tươi Đồng Nai held more possession, but most attacks were broken down early. PVF-CAND Youth’s disciplined defense minimized space, making dangerous shots rare. Both teams went into halftime locked in a goalless stalemate.

In the second half, an unexpected scenario unfolded as PVF-CAND Youth capitalized better on their chances. A set-piece was effectively exploited by the visitors to take the lead, forcing Trường Tươi Đồng Nai to chase the game.

After conceding, Coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng had to adjust personnel and accelerate the offensive effort. Continuous pressure was applied on PVF-CAND Youth’s goal, but Trường Tươi Đồng Nai still lacked precision in critical moments.

It was only near the end of the match that the home side found an equalizer thanks to a moment of individual brilliance. A well-executed set-piece allowed Trường Tươi Đồng Nai to level the score, thus avoiding defeat at home.

The remaining minutes saw efforts from both sides but no further goals. The 1-1 draw caused Trường Tươi Đồng Nai to miss an opportunity to climb the standings, while PVF-CAND Youth earned a positive result through solid defense and resilient spirit.