Tiến Linh, Hoàng Đức, and the difference-makers in the V-League

The first round of the 2025/26 V-League ended with a series of surprises, but most memorable for fans were the "heroes" who defined the matches with flashes of brilliance or dominant influence.

Tiến Linh, Patrik Lê Giang (Công an TP.HCM), Hoàng Đức, Đức Chiến (Ninh Bình), Mpande (PVF CAND), and Hudlin (Nam Định) all stood out on the opening day of the V-League.

After a 2024/25 season at Bình Dương that was considered less than successful, Tiến Linh faced much doubt when he moved to Công an TP.HCM. Yet, in the opening match against Hà Nội FC, the 28-year-old striker immediately made his mark by scoring the first goal, helping the city’s new team pull off the round’s biggest upset.

That goal was worth more than just three points; it was a clear statement that his striker’s instinct remains as sharp as ever.