Round 7 of the V-League 2025 - 2026: Hà Nội FC challenges the top team Ninh Bình

The V-League 2025 - 2026 is developing into a thrilling competition at both the top and bottom of the table after six rounds. Ninh Bình, the newcomer this season, remains the focus as they lead with an impressive streak. However, their away match at Hàng Đẫy in Round 7 promises to be a tough challenge for coach Albadalejo’s squad. This is also seen as a test of resilience for the “phenomenon” team from the ancient capital Hoa Lư.

The confrontation between Hà Nội FC and Ninh Bình at Hàng Đẫy is not just a battle between a long-established powerhouse and an ambitious newcomer. Currently, Ninh Bình holds a 6-point lead over Hà Nội FC. If the capital’s representative is defeated, Hoàng Đức and his teammates will solidify their top position. Conversely, if Ninh Bình loses this match, they risk losing first place to second-placed Công an Hà Nội, who face SLNA this round, while third-placed Thể Công Viettel will play against a relatively weaker Đà Nẵng.

After a dream start with 4 consecutive wins, Ninh Bình has slowed down with 2 draws in a row against Hải Phòng and Thể Công Viettel. The surprise factor of a newcomer has somewhat been neutralized. V-League opponents are now better prepared to counter this team.

Coach Albadalejo is also facing several difficulties as Ninh Bình’s squad depth is still insufficient. Especially with key player Châu Ngọc Quang sidelined long-term due to injury, the midfield has lost creativity and connection. The recent substitution choices by the Spanish strategist have not yielded the best results,

In attack, the duo Gustavo and Daniel Da Silva, after a brilliant first three rounds, have failed to score in the last three matches. Defenders have adopted tighter marking strategies, significantly reducing Ninh Bình’s offensive explosiveness. Additionally, striker Geovane’s suspension is a major loss for the team from the ancient capital, greatly diminishing attacking creativity.

Fitness is also a major concern for Ninh Bình’s key players such as Hoàng Đức, Văn Lâm, Đức Chiến, Gia Hưng (serving the National Team), and Quốc Việt, Thành Trung (with the Vietnam U23 team). These players only had three days off after returning to the club before this round. Whether they can maintain peak condition to play the full 90 minutes at Hàng Đẫy will greatly affect the match outcome.

For the home team Hà Nội FC, despite a slow start and currently standing 6th, they cannot be underestimated. They remain a squad with high-quality and skilled players.

The capital’s team has just achieved two consecutive wins to climb to 6th place. In the match against Ninh Bình, Hà Nội FC players are eager to secure 3 points to confirm their improvement.

In this match, the capital team will welcome their head coach Harry Kewell, who has had only 10 days to prepare for his V-League debut. Surely, Hà Nội FC players will compete with maximum determination to impress their new Australian coach.

Coach Harry Kewell is expected to rebuild Hà Nội FC, helping the team return strongly in the V-League and aiming for success on the continental stage. The encounter with the league leaders Ninh Bình is seen as a test of his coaching abilities.

With home advantage and high morale, Hà Nội FC is favored in this matchup. Currently holding 8 points, if they secure all 3 points against Ninh Bình, they will reduce the gap to the top to just 3 points, opening the door to rejoin the title race.

The match between Hà Nội FC and Ninh Bình will take place at 19:15 on October 18 at Hàng Đẫy Stadium. The team from the ancient capital Hoa Lư must prove they are not just a temporary “phenomenon.” Therefore, this showdown at Hàng Đẫy promises to be intense and thrilling.