Ninh Bình FC vs. CA TPHCM: More Than Just a Cup Match

The 2025/26 National Cup final between Ninh Bình and Công an TP.HCM at 18:00 today (June 14) is not just about competing for the trophy and a spot in the 2026/27 ASEAN Club Championship. It is also a notable display by overseas Vietnamese and naturalized players who are leaving a significant mark on the V-League.

This is a final that always offers many stories to look forward to. There is a tactical battle between coaches Chu Đình Nghiêm and Phùng Thanh Phương, as well as a clash between domestic stars like Hoàng Đức and Tiến Linh.

But at Ninh Bình Arena tonight, one of the most special highlights is the showdown between overseas Vietnamese and naturalized players on both sides of the pitch.

Ninh Bình boasts Văn Lâm, Tài Lộc, and Thành Trung. Meanwhile, Công an TP.HCM has Patrik Lê Giang, Khoa Ngô, and Lee Williams.

They are not only key figures for their two clubs but could also be players that coach Kim Sang Sik closely monitors for his long-term plans with the Vietnam national team.

The spotlight will undoubtedly be on the goalkeepers.Văn Lâmand Lê Giang are among the best goalkeepers in Vietnamese football today.

Văn Lâm is having a consistent season with Ninh Bình, bringing solidity and composure to the home team's defense.

With international experience, having been the first choice for the Vietnam national team for many years, and a knack for saving penalties, the goalkeeper of Vietnamese-Russian heritage always knows how to shine in big matches.

On the other side,Patrik Lê Gianghas just realized his dream of becoming eligible to play for the Vietnam national team. Lê Giang will often have to face greater pressure against a home side considered stronger.

For this reason, the miraculous saves of the Slovakian-Vietnamese goalkeeper have become a familiar sight for Công an TP.HCM fans. But that very fact gives him a chance to become a hero if he helps the visitors pull off a surprise.

It is no exaggeration to say this is also an indirect competition for the number one goalkeeper spot for Vietnam under coach Kim Sang Sik. The ASEAN Cup and Asian Cup qualifiers are approaching, and performances in the biggest domestic match of the season will surely be closely observed by the South Korean tactician.

In attack, attention focuses on two names representing new development trends in Vietnamese football. Tài Lộc of Ninh Bình has just completed his naturalization procedures and remains highly effective.

But the challenge for Ninh Bình’s defense is also considerable when facingLee Williams. The English-Vietnamese striker, only 19 years old, is an exciting phenomenon of the season. With 8 goals in all competitions, Lee has surpassed many experienced seniors to become the most effective scorer for Công an TP.HCM this year.

Standing over 1.90m tall, with strong aerial ability, good physical holding, and especially coolness in the penalty area, Lee is a constant threat to any defense. Notably, he has scored against Ninh Bình in both meetings this season.

On Ninh Bình’s side, Thành Trung is also a name to watch. With the presence of quality overseas Vietnamese and naturalized players on both teams, this year’s National Cup final is not just a battle for the championship trophy.