HÀ NỘI — Hoàng Anh Gia Lai (HAGL) are facing a defencive crisis ahead of their clash with Sài Gòn FC in the 15th round of the V.League 1 today.

The game will be held at Pleiku Stadium in Gia Lai Province.

Sài Gòn FC are on a high following their 5-2 win over league leaders Hà Nội FC last week, while HAGL have suffered three losses in a row and will be without key midfielders Nguyễn Tăng Tiến and Nguyễn Văn Hạnh due to suspensions.

Tiến was suspended for two matches after fouling Ewode E.Louis Christian of SHB Đà Nẵng in the 14th round on June 17 at Hòa Xuân Stadium in Đà Nẵng.

The VFF has also fined Hạnh VNĐ15 million (US$652) and suspended him for three matches for a foul on Rosa Tardin Douglas of Quảng Nam.

HAGL’s defence is one of the wrst in the league, having conceeded 24 goals so far this season. They are currently ninth in the league with 17 points, while Sài Gòn FC are in 12th with 13 points.

The management team are also unhappy with South Korean midfielder Kim Jinseo for his rash actions on the field, and may be looking for another foreigner to strengthen their squad.

“Following recent poor results, we plan to replace our foreign players to improve,” said manager Nguyễn Tấn Anh.

Elsewhere, Quảng Nam will face Hải Phòng, Thanh Hóa will meet Bình Dương and Quảng Ninh will take on Khánh Hòa. — VNS