Hanoi FC intensifies the drama in the race for the V-League Top 3

The 3-2 win on Ninh Binh's turf not only helped Hanoi FC "avenge" their defeat from the earlier match, reducing the distance to their opponent to a single point, but also turned the 2025/26 V-League Top 3 competition into the most "fiery" contest yet.

Before round 20, many believedNinh Binhheld a significant advantage in the race for the bronze medal.

But the 90 minutes at Hoa Lu Stadium reversed the situation. Hanoi FC, with the experience and caliber of a team that once dominated the V-League, played a superior, cool, and efficient match to secure their most crucial victory of the season so far.

Notably, this victory came in a context where the Capital's team lacked the services of their key defender Thanh Chung.

However, experienced names like Do Hung Dung and Nguyen Van Quyet stepped up at the right moment. Additionally, the impressive performance of young player Anh Tiep demonstrated the squad depth ofHanoi FCwhich remains something few teams possess.

The three goals from the visiting team not only stemmed from individual quality but also clearly exposed the laxity in Ninh Binh's defensive system. Mistakes in covering and lapses in concentration meant goalkeeper Van Lam's efforts could not prevent defeat.

This is not the first time Ninh Binh has revealed this issue, and facing a seasoned opponent like Hanoi FC, the home team paid the price.

Nevertheless, it cannot be saidNinh Binhplayed entirely poorly. Coach Bae Ji Won's team still showed resilience with two goals from Geovane Magno and Nguyen Quoc Viet. But the difference lies in Hanoi FC knowing how to maintain stability, while Ninh Binh only flares up intermittently.

Another major factor affecting the home team was the absence of key pillars like Nguyen Hoang Duc and main striker Gustavo. When the midfield lacked sufficient creativity and control, the attack became disjointed. Foreign player Fred Friday, expected to provide breakthroughs, continued to disappoint with a dry spell since joining from Hai Phong.

This defeat exposed Ninh Binh's biggest limitation: composure. As a newcomer, they can play explosively and create surprises, but maintaining stability in a long-term race is a different story. Conversely, Hanoi FC demonstrated they still possess the winning formula, accumulated through years of competition and trophy conquest.

The gap is now just 1 point, making the final 6 rounds a decisive battle. Ninh Binh still holds the advantage, but the pressure will undoubtedly be much greater after this stumble. If they do not quickly improve their defense and maintain focus, they could completely lose their Top 3 position.

For Hanoi FC, this victory carries not only points but also a massive morale boost. They have returned at the right time, at the crucial moment.