Hà Nội vs Thanh Hóa: The V.League 'King' Seeks to Rediscover Its Identity

On the evening of September 26, at Hàng Đẫy Stadium, Hà Nội Football Club will host Thanh Hóa in the early match of round 5 of the 2025-2026 V.League season. Given the current situation, this is more than just a league match; it is a crucial chance for the capital’s team to regain victory after their worst start in a decade.

After four rounds, the reigning V.League runners-up have only managed 2 points, dropping to 12th place out of 14 teams and trailing the league leaders Ninh Bình by 10 points.

Opportunity Against Thanh Hóa

Under the guidance of interim coach Yusuke Adachi, who is also the club’s technical director, Hà Nội has yet to show signs of improvement. In round 4, they took the lead but were equalized 1-1 by Thể Công Viettel, extending their gloomy streak.

Therefore, the match against Thanh Hóa becomes a “turning point” for coach Adachi’s squad. Their opponent from Thanh Hóa is also struggling following upper management turmoil, as the club’s sponsor and chairman was arrested, significantly impacting morale and squad strength.

After four rounds, Thanh Hóa also has only 2 points, ranking second to last in the standings V.League 2025/26. The situation worsens for the visitors as they are missing several key players.

Returning to Hà Nội, their attack, though full of potential, has not met expectations. After four matches, they have scored only 4 goals, a modest figure considering their strong lineup. Văn Quyết has yet to find the net, and Tuấn Hải just scored his first goal in the draw against Thể Công Viettel.

In this context, coach Adachi has spent much of the week focusing on tactical training with the aim of helping his players regain confidence and control of the game.

Home advantage and the support of the capital’s fans will be an important pillar for Hà Nội against a troubled Thanh Hóa side.

The Battle to Reclaim Status

What draws public attention is Hà Nội’s disastrous start. For 15 years in the V.League, they have been regarded as a symbol of success.

From 2010 to 2020, Hà Nội won 5 championships, finished runner-up 5 times, and placed third only once—a record unmatched by any other Vietnamese club.

That golden decade was built on two factors: high-quality local players and outstanding foreign imports. A well-structured youth academy produced many key players for the U23 and Vietnam national teams. At the same time, they skillfully recruited foreign talents like Gonzalo, Samson, and Pape Omar Faye, creating a once “invincible” squad.

But football evolves. While Hà Nội was once nearly unbeatable, the V.League now sees many ambitious clubs rising strongly.

Thể Công Viettel, Ninh Bình, CAHN, Nam Định, and CA TP.HCM have all invested heavily, boasting strong financial backing and high ambitions. What used to be a competition dominated by a few teams now has nearly half the clubs aiming for the championship.

Meanwhile, Hà Nội is showing several challenges. Key players like Văn Quyết and Hùng Dũng are approaching the twilight of their careers, Tuấn Hải is struggling to regain form, and the next generation like Văn Tùng has yet to break through.

Foreign players have also yet to make a significant impact. Therefore, the capital’s team must undergo a “personnel revolution” and restructure their technical staff.

Tonight’s match against Thanh Hóa at 7:15 PM (September 26) is not only an opportunity for Hà Nội to claim their first win but also a statement that they remain contenders for the title. If they can overcome pressure and capitalize on their advantages, the capital club can fully rediscover their lost inspiration.

From the position of ‘king’ V.League, Hà Nội faces its greatest challenge yet, proving that past glory is not a final destination but a motivation to continue their pursuit of success.

This journey will begin right at Hàng Đẫy Stadium, against a Thanh Hóa side also wounded, in a match expected to be full of drama.

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