Nguyễn Filip makes a comeback, CAHN concedes 2 goals and loses the top spot in the group

06/11/2025 17:38:00 soccer

Hanoi Police Club (CAHN) lost their top spot in Group E of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26 after a 1-2 defeat at Macarthur FC’s Campbelltown Sports ground.

Vietnamese-German goalkeeper Nguyễn Filip was unexpectedly included in the starting lineup by coach Alexandre “Mano” Polking for the away match against the Australian representative. This was his first start since suffering a groin injury in the first leg against Macarthur at Hàng Đẫy Stadium on October 23.

Filip’s return was expected to bring stability to CAHN’s defense, but the reality was disappointing. At the 19th minute, he conceded a goal following a cross from Vickery on the right wing, the ball passed beyond the reach of CAHN defenders allowing Grzan to easily finish from close range and open the score for Macarthur.

Lê Văn Đô took a free kick from the right side, delivering the ball into the penalty area causing chaos, which allowed Adou Minh to shoot into the far corner. Goalkeeper Kurto was blocked from view and reacted slowly, letting the ball roll into the net, helping CAHN equalize 1-1.

Three minutes later, Filip nearly made a mistake due to losing focus but quickly rushed out to correct it, blocking a shot from a Macarthur player. Before halftime, the visitors suffered a blow when foreign player Alan was injured, forcing coach Polking to bring on Đình Bắc earlier than planned.

In the second half, Macarthur controlled the game better while CAHN adopted a defensive approach, taking advantage of set pieces. At the 61st minute, Quang Hải passed effectively to Cao Quang Vinh, but his shot was blocked by a defender, and the rebound fell to Đình Bắc who shot over the bar from an open position.

At the 74th minute, Macarthur once again took the lead. Caceres launched a long-range shot that slightly deflected off a CAHN defender’s leg, deceiving Filip and preventing him from reacting in time. Earlier, CAHN’s assistant coach Luis Viegas received a red card for protesting the referee.

At the 84th minute, CAHN had a chance to equalize but China struck the ball against the post of the home team’s goal.

In the end, CAHN left Campbelltown empty-handed. After 4 matches, coach Polking’s team has 5 points, falling to second place in Group E, yielding the top spot to Macarthur FC (7 points).

Coach Polking’s squad could even drop to third if Tai Po beats Beijing Guoan in the match scheduled at 19:15 today (November 6).

In the next round on Tai Po (Hong Kong).

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