Thanh Hóa continues to face significant challenges in round 14 of the V-League

Thanh Hóa FC will be missing Odiljon Abdurakhmanov, the only foreign player left, due to receiving his third yellow card.

Thanh Hóa faces a squad dilemma in the 14th round of the V-League as foreign player Odiljon Abdurakhmanov has reached three yellow cards and must sit out one match. This is a major loss for the Thanh Hóa team, as the Uzbek midfielder has nearly played full 90 minutes in every game this season and is a key figure in their tactical setup.

The difficulties are compounded as Thanh Hóa has parted ways with most foreign players over salary disputes, leaving Abdurakhmanov as one of the few remaining. It is even reported that he agreed to play without pay to continue contributing, demonstrating his dedication and sense of responsibility to the club.

Thanh Hóa’s shortage of personnel was evident during the rescheduled round 10 match against CAHN. At that time, the home team had only five substitutes available and had to make an unusual decision: to put goalkeeper Y Eli Nie on the field as a forward in the final minutes of the game.

Specifically, in the 90th minute at Thanh Hóa Stadium, with the score at 1-3 in favor of CAHN, coach Mai Xuân Hợp used his last substitution to bring Y Eli Nie onto the pitch. The goalkeeper was pushed forward into an attacking position during stoppage time, a tactical move born out of necessity but also showing the team’s determination not to give up.

Earlier, Thanh Hóa started the match with great effort and even scored an early goal. However, CAHN’s superior squad quality allowed them to come back with a double from Alan at minutes 56 and 80, and a goal by Văn Hậu at minute 66, sealing a 3-1 victory.

Nevertheless, Thanh Hóa’s fighting spirit remains a highlight. In the last two rounds, they defeated CA TP.HCM 2-1 and drew 2-2 with reigning champions Nam Định. Currently placed 12th with 12 points, every point gained reflects their persistent effort, showcasing the team’s resilience and desire to avoid relegation.