Coach Phùng Thanh Phương is the biggest challenge for Ninh Bình FC

In just over a month, from a replacement expert, Coach Phùng Thanh Phương has turned CLB Công an TP.HCM into the most watchable team of the sprint phase. Ninh Bình FC will have to be cautious of CLB Công an TPHCM in the National Cup final at 6:00 PM on June 14.

From a precarious position after round 21 of the V-League, the team ofCoach Phùng Thanh Phươngnot only finished in the top five but also boldly advanced to the 2025/26 National Cup final.

That is an achievement far beyond expectations, considering the context where the team decided to part ways withCoach Lê Huỳnh Đứcafter round 21.

At that time, the clubCông an TP.HCMwas going through a disappointing series of matches. Despite possessing a heavily invested squad with many quality local players, notable foreign players, and even promising overseas Vietnamese players, the team lacked stability. Consecutive defeats caused their goal of competing for the top spots to nearly vanish.

But then Coach Phùng Thanh Phương appeared to replace Coach Lê Huỳnh Đức, and the manager born in 1978 has kept the club undefeated for over a month. The former Vietnam U23 international has long been known in Ho Chi Minh City football as a "fixer."

Whenever city teams face a crisis, he is often the chosen one to stabilize the dressing room. His calmness, approachability, and ability to connect with players always earn him respect from his pupils. This has continued to be evident at Công an TP.HCM.

Under Coach Phùng Thanh Phương, the team earned 7 points in the final 5 rounds of the V-League against tough opponents, thereby climbing to 5th place overall. More importantly, the team regained their fighting spirit, unity, and belief, which had been lost for most of the season.

This resurgence was clearly reflected in individual performances. Patrik Lê Giang remained a reliable anchor in goal with numerous crucial saves. Tiến Linh rediscovered his best form after an unstable period. Lee Williams scored consistently. Meanwhile, foreign players like Utzig, Endrick, Matheus, and Peter all burst into form at decisive moments.

If one match best illustrates the impact of Coach Phùng Thanh Phương, it is surely the 4-2 victory over Nam Định in the National Cup semifinal. Right at Thiên Trường, where Nam Định had a stronger squad and home advantage,Công an TP.HCMcreated a major shock, leading 4-0 after the first half.

Although Nam Định pulled back two goals in the second half, including a flash of brilliance from Xuân Son, the final result remained unchanged. Công an TP.HCM reached the National Cup final for the first time, while Nam Định ended their season empty-handed and full of disappointment despite massive investment.

Coach Thanh Phương's team does not have the star-studded lineup of their opponents, but they possess unity and belief. Of course, the biggest challenge still lies ahead, but Công an TP.HCM can be hopeful with Mr. Phương at the helm.

The showdown with veteran strategist Chu Đình Nghiêm makes the National Cup final a must-watch. These are the two teams currently in the best form.

It is also a battle between two local coaches who are creating the finest stories of Vietnamese football this season.