Nam Định successfully secured the top position in the V-League standings after defeating CLB Thể Công Viettel 2-0 during their highly anticipated match at Mỹ Đình Stadium on February 28, 2025. This match, which was part of the 15th round of the V-League 2024-2025 season, highlighted the fierce competition between the two teams, both vying for the coveted title.
The clash was nothing short of exhilarating as both teams came out with the intent to claim all three points. Early on, Nam Định established dominance, scoring the first goal just eight minutes after kickoff. Nguyễn Phong Hồng Duy blasted the ball past Viettel’s defense, landing the first blow and setting the tone for the match.
Despite trailing behind, CLB Thể Công Viettel responded with increased aggression. They maintained greater ball possession and created several offensive opportunities. Players like Khuất Văn Khang, Pedro Henrique, and Almarido demonstrated skill and determination, but were unable to capitalize on their chances. This led to frustrations for the home team as they headed to the locker room, down 0-1.
During the second half, CLB Thể Công Viettel intensified their efforts to equalize. Head Coach Nguyễn Đức Thắng made tactical changes, switching from a 3-5-2 to a more aggressive 4-3-3 formation, substituting Minh Tùng for Công Phương and later bringing on strikers Nhâm Mạnh Dũng and Trần Danh Trung to shake things up.
Unfortunately for Viettel, their attempts at offense felt lackluster, relying heavily on long balls which offered little creativity. The pressing nature of their attack revealed vulnerabilities at the back. The 85th minute saw Viettel finally pose danger as Nhâm Mạnh Dũng found Danh Trung with a clever pass, sending him one-on-one with goalkeeper Nguyên Mạnh. Yet, the young striker faltered, failing to execute the shot accurately.
With time running out and desperation creeping in, CLB Thể Công Viettel pushed forward even harder, becoming increasingly exposed. Their defense was almost breached again when Tuấn Anh’s distance shot rattled the crossbar, and moments later, Văn Anh found the net, but saw his effort ruled offside.
The suspense reached its peak when, during stoppage time, Viettel paid the price for their offensive commitment. A swift counter-attack by Nam Định resulted in Văn Vĩ capitalizing on the disarray, executing a beautifully placed lob over the goalkeeper, sealing the match at 2-0.
With this victory, Nam Định fortified their top position with 25 points, maintaining a five-point lead over both CLB Thể Công Viettel and Thanh Hóa, who occupy the second and third spots, respectively.
After the match, injured forward Nguyễn Xuân Son, who attended on crutches to support his team, celebrated triumphantly from the stands before joining his teammates on the field to share the post-match joy. “I am happy to see the team bounce back after some early difficulties; now we focus on the next games,” he commented, underscoring the resilience of the squad. Nam Định's efforts were significantly boosted by their recent form, marking three consecutive victories, aimed explicitly at the V-League after early exits from national and regional tournaments.
They now set their eyes on the next challenge, facing CAHN on March 8 at Hàng Đẫy Stadium, as they aim to continue their impressive run.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Nam Định seeks to solidify their standing and potentially clinch the V-League title this season.