Hải Phòng FC's foreign player encountered an unusual incident before the match.

Foreign player Welo Lupeta unexpectedly hospitalized just before the match caused Hải Phòng FC to scramble their lineup and suffer defeat on Hà Tĩnh's field.

The sudden incident involving foreign player Welo Lupeta became a notable highlight in Hải Phòng Club's defeat on Hà Tĩnh's field in round 19 of V-League 2025/26. The key striker's hospitalization just before kick-off not only affected the squad but also disrupted the entire tactical plan of the visiting team.

According to coach Chu Đình Nghiêm's sharing, Lupeta was originally arranged to start but encountered sudden health issues. “The key striker had health problems right before the match and had to go to the hospital for examination. We had to substitute Ronaldo Fletcher in from the beginning.”, he stated. This change forced Hải Phòng to adjust their gameplay operation from the very first minutes.

The loss of a center forward capable of wall-play and linking the front line caused Hải Phòng many difficulties in developing attacks. Their build-up lacked cohesion, while the home team utilized opportunities well. The only goal of the match was scored by Atshimene Charles at minute 20, following a coordinated play with Nguyễn Trọng Hoàng on the right flank.

After medical examination, Lupeta returned to the field and was substituted in at minute 42. However, the Portuguese striker did not perform as expected. His compromised physical condition left him lacking sharpness and the ability to create breakthroughs, which had previously helped Hải Phòng secure two consecutive victories.

Besides professional factors, peripheral information also drew attention when suspicions arose that Lupeta was affected by flares from the home team's fans. Although no official conclusion exists, this incident partly explains the unusual condition of the foreign player born in 1993, and demonstrates how non-professional risks can directly impact a match.

In overall assessment, coach Chu Đình Nghiêm admitted his team was unlucky. “The ball hit the post, goalkeeper Nguyễn Thanh Tùng played well, and the players didn't respond adequately are the reasons.” The 0-1 defeat extended Hải Phòng's forgettable away streak, while Nguyễn Công Mạnh and Hà Tĩnh relieved pressure with crucial 3 points, thereby gaining a significant advantage in the relegation battle.

Breaking Hà Tĩnh's net, Xuân Son immediately said something special about one person.

Foreign player shines, Hà Tĩnh narrowly defeats Hải Phòng at home.