Coach Viet Thang is hailed as a 'promotion specialist'

Vietnamese football previously knew Nguyen Viet Thang as a prolific forward for the national side, a player who competed with passion and a fierce hunger for victory. But upon transitioning to management, the ex-national team member is gradually forging a new identity: the "king of promotion" in Vietnamese football.

For two consecutive seasons,Coach Nguyen Viet Thanghas accomplished what few domestic coaches can achieve. In the 2024/25 season, he led Phu Dong Ninh Binh to the V-League with a nearly perfect record.

One year later, in the 2025/26 season, he continued to helpTruong Tuoi Dong Naiwin the First Division title and secure a spot on the highest stage of Vietnamese football.

Two different clubs, two different situations, but the same result: promotion under Viet Thang's direction.

If the feat with Ninh Binh was seen as a confirmation of his ability, then the championship with Dong Nai is proof that his success is not a fleeting phenomenon.

That is the outcome of clear tactical thinking, effective management of the dressing room, and especially the composure of someone who consistently makes the right decision at the most critical moment.

The 3-0 victory over Long An in round 21 is a typical example of Viet Thang's coaching influence. In the first half, Truong Tuoi Dong Nai controlled the game but faced many difficulties against the opponent's well-organized defense.

BringingCong Phuongon in the second half helped the club ofCoach Viet Thangcreate a difference. One goal, two assists, and involvement in all three of the home team's goals made Cong Phuong the brightest star of the match.

But behind that performance is the strong tactical imprint of coach Nguyen Viet Thang, who identified the issue and provided the correct solution at the decisive moment. That victory in the heavy rain helped Dong Nai reach 50 points after 21 rounds, leaving second-placed Bac Ninh 5 points behind with only one round remaining.

The "Green Warriors" officially clinched the title early and received a 2 billion VND reward from the organizers. Fireworks lit up the heavy rain, while thousands of Dong Nai fans erupted in joy after years of waiting for their hometown team to return to the V-League.

Behind that championship is a systematic investment strategy lasting three years by owner Pham Huong Son, but the one who turned ambition into reality is Nguyen Viet Thang. He built a cohesive squad with a strong identity, blending former national players like Cong Phuong, Xuan Truong, Minh Vuong, Van Son with eager young talents.

Remarkably, this is not the first time Coach Viet Thang has worked a miracle. One year earlier, he led Phu Dong Ninh Binh to set a points record in the First Division with 58 points after 20 matches, winning 19, drawing 1, and going unbeaten all season.

That was an unprecedented achievement, showcasing the absolute dominance of the ancient capital team under the guidance of the 1981-born strategist. Comparing the two consecutive promotion campaigns reveals that the greatest common factor of the teams led by Viet Thang is stability.

They not only possessed a strong squad but also maintained fighting spirit, focus, and a relentless desire to win throughout the entire season.