After 9 rounds of the 2025/26 V-League, the relegation battle has taken an unexpected twist as HAGL, despite being last in the standings, is still seen as having the potential to rise. In contrast, Đông Á Thanh Hóa is being dragged down by both financial troubles and low morale.
At this point, both HAGL and Thanh Hóa have 7 points and a goal difference of -6, but HAGL, led by sporting director Vũ Tiến Thành, has played one match fewer.
HAGL displays fighting spirit and a strong will to overcome difficulties, while the Thanh Hóa team is overshadowed by a bleak atmosphere caused by unpaid wages, resulting in poor performances on the field.