Round 19 V-League: The Medal Race Heats Up

Round 19 witnessed a fierce and intense race in the upper group of the standings, as teams fiercely competed with point differences just within a hair's breadth.

Round 19 of V.League 1 2025/26 continued to showcase an enthralling championship race as the top teams did not miss any opportunity to accumulate points. On the pitch of Ho Chi Minh City Police, Hanoi Police demonstrated the caliber of the league leaders with a convincing 3-0 victory. Despite playing away, Coach Mano Polking's team completely controlled the match and displayed superiority in both squad quality and competitive spirit.

Three goals by Van Do, Rogerio Alves, and Dinh Bac, evenly distributed across both halves, secured Hanoi Police a full 3 points. Not only did this maintain their top position, but this victory also affirmed the strength of the prime contender for this season's championship. The police force team is maintaining very stable form and creating significant pressure on the chasing rivals behind them.

Close behind is Viettel, who also secured a crucial victory against Hoang Anh Gia Lai. Despite playing at home, Viettel faced considerable difficulties against an opponent traditionally considered a "tough match." The Mountain City representative did not attack relentlessly, but each counterattack was highly dangerous, while their tight defense left the hosts struggling throughout the first half and much of the second.

Only midway through the second half did Viettel break the deadlock thanks to Wesley Nata's goal from a set-piece situation on the left flank. That sole goal was enough to secure valuable 3 points, helping the army-clad team continue to chase Hanoi Police in the race for the top spot. The gap between the two teams remains very narrow, making the championship competition increasingly tense.

In the race for the top 3, Hanoi FC played early and secured a victory against Becamex Ho Chi Minh City to put significant pressure on Ninh Bình. However, the ancient capital team responded strongly by defeating PVF-CAND 3-0 right at home. This match was also watched live by Vietnam national team head coach Kim Sang Sik, and national team players like Gia Hung, Thanh Trung, and Van Thuan all shone successively to make their mark.

A third consecutive victory helped Ninh Bình firmly consolidate their 3rd place position, while heating up the upcoming clash with Hanoi FC in Round 20. Meanwhile, Nam Dinh Steel also quietly closed in on the leading group with a 2-1 victory over SHB Da Nang. In the lower half of the standings, the relegation battle is equally fierce as the gaps between teams are very fragile. With 7 rounds remaining, V.League 2025/26 promises many more surprises in both the championship race and the survival battle.

Round 19 V-League: Victory for the Home Teams

Coach Huynh Duc directly pointed out CATPHCM's issues after the 0-3 loss to CAHN