Công Phượng is ready for the intense promotion race.

The 2025/26 National First Division begins under unprecedented promotion pressure. Due to the organizers' decision, only one direct promotion spot to the V-League and one play-off slot remain, making the competition as fierce as in past seasons and posing significant risks for ambitious clubs.

For Trường Tươi Đồng Nai, where Công Phượng has just been named captain, this season represents not only a challenge but also a chance to prove their ambition to return to the top-level competition.

After missing the National Cup win over Becamex TP.HCM due to coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng’s caution over his minor injury, Công Phượng has fully resumed training and is ready to play in tonight’s (September 20) home game against TP.HCM.

This match is considered a crucial opener as it will set the tone for Đồng Nai’s entire season. A victory will confirm the Southeast team as the leading candidate for promotion, while a poor result will immediately increase pressure from rivals.

The responsibility on Công Phượng’s shoulders is growing. The captain’s armband given by coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng is both recognition and a sign of trust: to lead a star-rich squad, harmonize the personalities of many experienced players, and serve as a mental anchor during tense moments.

At 30 years old, Công Phượng realizes this is a pivotal time in his career. If he helps Đồng Nai gain promotion to the V-League, he will reaffirm his value after a rollercoaster period.

Đồng Nai’s squad this season is considered the strongest in the league. The club features a varied attack including Công Phượng, last season’s top scorer Lưu Tự Nhân, along with familiar forwards like Lê Thanh Bình, Hồ Thanh Minh, Sỹ Giáp, and foreign player Alex Sandro.

The midfield duo Xuân Trường – Minh Vương offers rhythm control and creativity. The defense, including Văn Sơn, Hữu Tuấn, and Văn Khoa, is also rich in match experience. With balanced personnel across all three lines, Đồng Nai openly aims to dominate from the beginning.

However, the journey to the V-League is never easy. Their opening opponent, TP.HCM, promises to be a dark horse with many players formerly from Công an TP.HCM.

Additionally, Bắc Ninh is emerging as a top contender, having thoroughly prepared both in squad strength and spirit. Đồng Nai has a coach who led CAHN to the 2023 V-League title, Paulo Foiani; goalkeeper Huỳnh Tuấn Linh; forwards Ngân Văn Đại, Hà Đức Chinh, Silva Amarante; midfielders Phạm Văn Thành, Mai Xuân Quyết, Hoàng Xuân Tân, Nguyễn Hải Huy, overseas Vietnamese Eddie Trần; defenders Nguyễn Thanh Long, Trương Văn Thiết... all well-acquainted with the V-League.

With only one direct promotion spot, any mistake could put Đồng Nai at a disadvantage, possibly forcing them into the risky play-off as happened last season.

The harsh lesson that Công Phượng and his teammates learned last year remains fully relevant. First Division teams always face great risks if they must enter a play-off against a V-League representative.

For Công Phượng personally, this season is also a turning point. At 30, he must prove he still has the courage and skill to lead a star-studded team toward promotion.