The match between PVF-CAND and Ninh Bình in Round 8 of the 2025/26 V.League attracted fans not only for its on-field excitement but also due to a special appearance in the stands when Mano Polking, head coach of Hanoi Police FC, came to watch the game.
According to reports, Mano Polking appeared in the PVF stadium stands with a focused demeanor, continuously taking notes throughout the match. His purpose was not only to analyze PVF-CAND’s playing style, the direct opponent of CAHN in Round 9, but also to observe the form of the league leaders Ninh Bình, a team regarded as the biggest "phenomenon" of this V-League season.
From Polking’s perspective, this was a valuable opportunity to better understand how the newcomers perform in a top-level environment and to identify exploitable weaknesses. However, when Hoàng Đức shone with a classy goal in the 86th minute, sealing a 3-1 victory for Ninh Bình, the Brazilian strategist stood up and left the stands before the final whistle.
It was observed at the stadium that Coach Polking left the stands immediately after Hoàng Đức’s goal. This action was seen as a sign that the CAHN coach had "gathered enough data" after witnessing Ninh Bình’s comprehensive dominance while PVF-CAND continued to reveal defensive flaws and lack of match experience.
Hoàng Đức’s beautifully angled finish not only ended PVF-CAND’s hopes of earning points but also highlighted the class difference between the top team and the rest. Perhaps that moment made Polking realize that the V-League title race this year would be much fiercer than expected, with Ninh Bình emerging as a genuine powerhouse.
After this match, CAHN faces CA.HCM before hosting PVF-CAND at Hàng Đẫy Stadium on October 31. Although PVF-CAND is currently out of form, Coach Polking must remain cautious as they are an "unpredictable" opponent with a squad of ambitious young players ready to cause surprises.
Polking’s personal attendance shows his intention to prepare thoroughly for the crucial phase of the season, as CAHN aims to return to the leading group. Nevertheless, his early departure still raises curiosity among fans whether it reflected disappointment in PVF-CAND’s performance or simply that he had obtained sufficient information for upcoming tactical plans.
Whatever the reason, the image of Mano Polking leaving the stands right after Hoàng Đức’s goal remains a notable moment, partially reflecting the current situation of the V-League: Ninh Bình flourishing brilliantly, while rivals like CAHN must strategize carefully if they want to keep up with the top spot.