Hà Nội Police Club are on the way to lifting the V.League 1 2023 trophy in their first season since gaining promotion. Photo vtc.vn

Football

HÀ NỘI — Hà Nội Police Club, after defeating defending champions Hà Nội FC and strong contenders Viettel, are poised to clinch the V.League 1 2023 trophy in their first season since gaining promotion.

The final game on August 27 will ultimately determine the championship. Hà Nội Police have a two-point lead over Hà Nội, giving them control over their destiny.

Their journey to the top has been nothing short of spectacular. In the first leg of the event, Hà Nội and Viettel both defeated Hà Nội Police with scores of 2-0 and 2-1, respectively. However, in the second leg, which would decide the champions, Hà Nội Police turned the tables by defeating Hà Nội 2-1 and then Viettel 3-0, propelling them towards the finish line.

The remarkable turnaround can be attributed to changes in the coaching staff and the outstanding performances of their foreign footballers.

Following a 0-2 loss to Hải Phòng at Hàng Đẫy Stadium on July 29, Brazilian coach Flavio Cruz was no longer utilised by Hà Nội Police, although he was not officially fired. Instead, technical director Trần Tiến Đại took charge and, surprisingly, led the team to three consecutive crucial victories, reclaiming the top spot from Hà Nội FC. Notably, in the match against Viettel, known for their strong defence, Hà Nội Police secured a convincing 3-0 lead in the first half.

One notable player is overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper Filip Nguyễn, who showcased his brilliance in the match against Viettel by saving Đức Chiến's 11m shot and making several other crucial saves. Additionally, midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải regained his confidence and scored a goal from the penalty spot in the match against Viettel.

However, the standout rookie is striker Raphael Success from Nigeria. He has scored a total of four goals in seven league matches, including two against Viettel.

Chance

Twenty years ago, Hoàng Anh Gia Lai Club achieved a remarkable feat by winning the V.League 1 2003 immediately after earning promotion. Now, Hà Nội Police have a historic opportunity to replicate that success with only one match remaining against Thanh Hóa at Hàng Đẫy Stadium on August 27.

Currently, Hà Nội Police are leading the tournament with 37 points from 19 matches, holding a two-point advantage over Hà Nội FC. In theory, Hà Nội FC can still clinch the championship if they defeat Viettel at Mỹ Đình National Stadium and Hà Nội Police lose to Thanh Hóa.

The final match holds significance as Hà Nội FC is determined to defend their crown, while Thanh Hóa, aiming for third place, can pose challenges for Hà Nội Police if they are determined to win.

Although the chances of defending their V.League crown are slim, Hà Nội FC have no intention of surrendering in their closing match against Viettel FC at the end of this month.

Following their convincing 3-1 victory against Thanh Hóa at Thanh Hóa Stadium, coach Bozidar Bandovic of Hà Nội expressed confidence, stating: "We delivered a convincing performance against Thanh Hóa, which serves as motivation for the final match against Viettel.

"Our goal remains unchanged, and we will be resolute in seeking victory and awaiting our opportunity."

Captain Nguyễn Văn Quyết also emphasises that the tournament is not yet over. He stressed the importance of staying focused and working hard until the last minute, reaffirming Hà Nội's commitment to defending the championship.

“This year, Hà Nội Police have many factors to win the league, but we always try our best to the last moment. No matter what, we will still chase with all our might,” Quyết said.

Hà Nội Police hold a significant advantage heading into the final match. With just a draw against Thanh Hóa, Hà Nội Police can secure the title. On the other hand, it is highly unlikely for Hà Nội FC to defeat Viettel by a margin of seven goals in order to surpass Hà Nội Police in goal difference, given that both teams currently have 38 points.

With the championship within reach, Hà Nội Police will undoubtedly give their all to achieve the best possible result against Thanh Hóa and fulfill their goal of becoming champions. VNS