(Football results) - Though encountering difficulties against PVF-CAND’s passionate play, Ninh Bình proved their class as V-League leaders by winning decisively 3-1 on the road.
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The match in Hưng Yên started energetically when PVF-CAND, undaunted by the “giants,” surprisingly scored early in the 9th minute. After a beautiful combination between Xuân Bắc and Thanh Nhàn, the home team’s young striker delivered a precise diagonal shot that goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm couldn’t stop.
The early goal boosted PVF-CAND’s confidence, creating several dangerous chances, including a missed shot by Anh Quân in the 12th minute. However, this advantage didn’t last long. The visitors Ninh Bình gradually regained control with superior midfield possession, where Hoàng Đức and the overseas Vietnamese player Trần Thành Trung combined effectively.
In the 30th minute, Ninh Bình equalized thanks to an impressive solo run by Bảo Toàn, who dribbled past two defenders before unleashing a powerful shot that beat PVF-CAND’s goalkeeper. Minutes later, Daniel Dos Anjos capitalized on a precise lob from Trần Thành Trung to score from close range, putting Ninh Bình ahead 2-1 before halftime.
In the second half, PVF-CAND pushed hard. They had two notable moments: Mpande’s goal was disallowed for offside (51st minute), and Thanh Nhàn’s long-range shot in the 74th minute nearly equalized. The constant pressure forced Ninh Bình’s defense to work intensely.
However, at the most critical moment, the top team’s composure shone again. In the 86th minute, Hoàng Đức, outstanding throughout the match, made a powerful run near the penalty area and fired a very precise diagonal shot. Although goalkeeper Sỹ Huy touched the ball, he couldn’t prevent the goal. This goal sealed a 3-1 comeback victory for Ninh Bình.
This win not only extended Ninh Bình’s unbeaten streak to 32 matches but also confirmed the comprehensive strength of the most formidable newcomer in the V.League. Under coach Gerard Albadajejo, Ninh Bình showcases a harmonious blend of experience, discipline, and creativity in their playstyle.
Meanwhile, despite the loss, PVF-CAND deserves praise for their courageous performance. This young team continues to prove they are tough opponents, a determined squad gradually maturing in Vietnam’s top football league.
With Hoàng Đức’s outstanding display, Ninh Bình holds firm at the top, affirming their genuine ambition as a championship contender in the 2025/26 V.League season.
90' The match has 5 minutes of added time
86' Hoàng Đức scores
Hoàng Đức maneuvers skillfully, despite pressure from PVF CAND players, the Vietnamese national team midfielder still manages a shot from outside the box, increasing Ninh Bình’s lead to 3-1
80' PVF CAND launches intense attacks
The home team continuously presses after Hoàng Vũ Samson entered the field, yet a goal is still elusive
74' Unsuccessful attempt
Thanh Nhàn shoots from outside the box but unfortunately the ball sails over the crossbar, a big miss for the home side
64' PVF CAND tries to attack
PVF-CAND strives to break through but has yet to create significant chances against Ninh Bình’s goal
51' Goal disallowed
Mpande scored but the goal was ruled out due to offside
48' Xuân Bắc heads
Xuân Bắc attempts a dangerous header but misses the target
46' Second half begins
HALF TIME
45' No penalty awarded
Although VAR reviewed Mpande’s fall inside Ninh Bình’s penalty area, the final decision was no penalty
42' Exciting gameplay
PVF CAND is ready to counterattack looking for an equalizer; the match is very open
35' GOAL
Overseas Vietnamese player Trần Thành Trung delivers a precise lob, Daniel Dos Anjos arrives at the right moment to finish close-range, giving Ninh Bình the lead and favorable momentum
30' Bảo Toàn’s masterpiece
Bảo Toàn skillfully dribbles down the left flank, beats two defenders, and unleashes a powerful shot to level the score for Ninh Bình
27' Ninh Bình faces difficulties
PVF CAND players defend strongly, denying Ninh Bình many chances
22' Missed chance
Ninh Bình builds a smooth attack on the left side but Thanh Thịnh fails to finish successfully
16' Tight contest
Ninh Bình tries to control possession and deliver crosses into PVF CAND’s penalty area but hasn’t succeeded yet
12' Chance
PVF CAND continues their momentum after scoring; Xuân Bắc sends a dangerous cross but Anh Quân misses the open shot
9' GOAL
Thanh Nhàn fires a precise shot following a good wall pass from Xuân Bắc; goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm had no chance to save. PVF CAND shows no fear against the V-League leaders
4' Ninh Bình controls the game
With overseas Vietnamese players Trần Thành Trung and Hoàng Đức in midfield, Ninh Bình takes the initiative with successive ball recoveries in their half
1' Kickoff
Starting lineups PVF CAND vs Ninh Bình:
After being promoted to replace Quảng Nam FC, PVF-CAND entered this season with rushed preparations. Led by coach Thạch Bảo Khanh, this young team brought fresh energy with fierce determination and a desire to prove themselves. However, their lack of experience and squad depth has prevented them from achieving consistent results.
Before round 8, PVF-CAND had only 7 points, ranking 8th, with a streak of 6 games without a win (4 draws, 2 losses). Nevertheless, their entertaining style and fighting spirit remain a bright spot, giving fans hope for a promising future. Hosting the league leaders Ninh Bình at Hưng Yên will be a tough test of PVF-CAND’s resilience.
On the other hand, Ninh Bình under coach Gerard Albadajejo is crafting a fairy tale in the V-League. From newcomers, they now top the table and maintain a 31-match unbeaten streak across all competitions (within regular time), a rare record in Vietnamese football history.
Ninh Bình’s strength lies in the perfect mix of experience and quality. The domestic players Hoàng Đức, Đức Chiến, Thanh Thịnh, Quang Nho, and goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm provide stability, while foreigners Gustavo and Daniel are in great form, contributing significantly to the 17 goals scored in 7 matches, an impressive rate of 2.4 goals per game.
Beyond their attacking power, Ninh Bình shows defensive solidity. Văn Lâm continues his consistent performances with many excellent saves, helping the team concede only 6 goals so far. Despite missing Châu Ngọc Quang and Geovane due to injury and suspension, coach Gerard still has a deep squad to maintain top form.
In terms of form, quality, and experience, Ninh Bình is clearly superior. The visitors are likely to stick to their ball control and versatile attacking philosophy, aiming for a full three points to strengthen their lead.
Meanwhile, PVF-CAND will rely on home advantage and youthful enthusiasm to seek a positive result. If they capitalize on counterattacks and maintain fighting spirit, the industrial sector team can challenge the league’s top-performing side.
Still, based on current performances, Ninh Bình remains the favorite to win. The match promises excitement, showcasing the contrast between experience and ambition, between the title contender and the promising newcomer of this V-League season.