Hà Nội closes in on the top spot, TP HCM I fears losing the crown

Round 9 of the 2025 Women's National Championship – Thai Son Bac Cup: Hà Nội moves closer to the lead held by reigning champions TP HCM I.

Facing TP.HCM II in round 9, Hà Nội launched an aggressive attack right after the whistle, aiming for a victory. The opening goal came early for the capital’s team, but in an unexpected way. Như Ý from TP.HCM II scored an own goal, giving Hà Nội the lead. However, Hải Yến and her teammates couldn’t capitalize further in the first half.

In the second half, Hà Nội scored consecutively. At the 47th minute, Vạn Sự doubled Hà Nội’s lead. Between the 68th and 84th minutes, Nguyễn Thị Hoa, Vũ Thị Hoa, and Tú Anh each scored, pushing the score to 5-0 for the northern side. TP.HCM II managed only a single consolation goal by Quỳnh Anh. This win leaves Hà Nội just 2 points behind TP.HCM I, keeping their championship hopes alive.

A 4-point lead over rivals like Than KSVN and Hà Nội gives TP.HCM I confidence going into the penultimate round. However, coach Đoàn Thị Kim Chi’s team faced a strong challenge from Than KSVN. The mining region team posed significant difficulties for the defending champions. In the first half, both sides struggled to finish well, ending the half goalless.

In the second half, TP.HCM I pushed forward but still lacked sharpness and a bit of luck to break the deadlock. Conversely, Than KSVN missed chances to close the gap at the top. The match ended 0-0, leaving Hà Nội with a chance to catch TP.HCM, as the difference is now only 2 points before the final round.

Although they can’t clinch the title early, TP HCM I still controls their fate by needing only a win in the final match to secure the championship. If they win again this year, TP HCM will set a record with 15 national titles, including 10 championships in the last 11 years.