Round 20 of V.League 2025/26: Hanoi Club closes in on the top 3!

Round 20 of V.League witnessed Hanoi Club narrowing the distance to the top 3 following a thrilling win against Ninh Binh, as HAGL gained an important point to enhance their standing in the fight to avoid relegation.

Round 20 of V.League 1-2025/26 continued with high drama, as both the top and bottom sections of the table saw significant fluctuations. Hanoi Club secured a breathless victory over Ninh Binh Club to stay close to the top 3, while HAGL also added a vital point in their relegation struggle.

In the headline match, Hanoi Club started favorably with Hung Dung scoring in the 3rd minute. Before the first half ended, Anh Tiep doubled the lead, giving the visitors a 2-0 advantage and a significant edge in the direct clash with Ninh Binh.

In the second half, the match intensified. Geovane reduced the deficit to 1-2, reigniting hope for the home team. However, Van Quyet promptly responded with a goal to make it 3-1 in the 58th minute. Despite Quoc Viet scoring again to narrow it to 2-3, Hanoi Club held firm and preserved the overall win.

The crucial three points propelled Hanoi Club to 4th place with 36 points, trailing Ninh Binh Club by just one point in the race for the top 3. This narrow margin makes the competition at the top extremely tense as the season enters its decisive phase.

On the other side, Ninh Binh Club, despite the loss, maintained its position in the leading group with 37 points, but pressure has increased significantly as rivals behind are fiercely chasing. The race for the top 3 therefore promises further changes in the upcoming rounds.

In the lower section of the table, HAGL drew 0-0 with Hai Phong. Although unable to win, the one point earned helped the mountain-town team raise their total to 19, temporarily creating a safer distance from the danger zone. However, they still await results from direct competitors, as the relegation battle remains highly tense and unpredictable.

Van Quyet's shocking statement: 'Even if Ninh Binh had three Hoang Duc... it would be the same'

Hung Dung shines, Hanoi defeats Ninh Binh to close in on the top 3