Before round 21 of the First Division: Waiting for Cong Phuong’s team to become champions

Just need to beat Long An, Cong Phuong and his teammates at Truong Tuoi Dong Nai will officially be crowned and earn a ticket to play in the V-League next season.

Round 21 of the 2025/26 National First Division promises to be exciting with many notable matchups, especially the showdown between Tre PVF-CAND (28 points) and Xuan Thien Phu Tho (29 points) at PVF Stadium. This is considered a “rookie derby” as both teams have had impressive debut seasons and are fiercely competing for a top 5 position. Tre PVF-CAND has surprised with their stability despite not having an ideal pre-season preparation, while Xuan Thien Phu Tho has shown clear improvement after a difficult first half. With only a 1-point gap on the standings, this match is predicted to be very balanced and exciting.

At the 19/8 Stadium, Khatoco Khanh Hoa (26 points) hosts Quang Ninh (22 points) in a fairly evenly matched contest. The coastal team was once among the contenders for high rankings but has faded in the decisive stage. However, the chance to finish in the top half of the table remains if Khanh Hoa wins both of their last two matches. Quang Ninh also has strong motivation, wanting to avenge their home loss in the first leg, and they just had a convincing victory over Tre PVF-CAND in the previous round.

Another notable match is the clash between Quy Nhon United (32 points) and Bac Ninh FC (42 points). The home team is fiercely competing for a medal position and desperately needs points. Meanwhile, Bac Ninh FC is almost certain to hold onto the runner-up spot but must maintain form to prepare for the playoff for a promotion spot. With a 3-1 win in the first leg and more consistent form, the away team is considered slightly superior.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the derby between TNHCM (7 points) and TPHCM (32 points) is considered the most lopsided match of the round. TNHCM has been officially relegated after a 0-8 defeat last round and has almost no motivation left. Conversely, TPHCM is still competing for a top 3 position and will likely aim to take all three points.

Truong Tuoi Dong Nai (47 points) also has the chance to be crowned early as they host Long An. The Southeast region team is 5 points ahead of Bac Ninh FC and needs just one more win to move closer to the championship. Meanwhile, Long An has achieved their survival goal, so they are unlikely to cause an upset.

In the remaining match, Dong Thap faces Dai hoc Van Hien in a relaxed state as both have secured survival. Dong Thap is in good form with a 5-match unbeaten streak, while Dai hoc Van Hien has significantly declined in the latter part of the season. With home advantage, the Pink Lotus land team is expected to avenge their 0-1 loss in the first leg.