Thep Xanh Nam Dinh FC started their AFC Champions League 2 journey with an impressive 3-1 home victory over Thailand's Ratchaburi FC on September 17, 2025. The result at Thiên Trường Stadium marked a dream continental debut for the Vietnamese club, earning three vital points against experienced opponents. The home side raced into a two-goal lead in the first half, stunning the visitors with their intensity and attacking flair. Ratchaburi managed to pull a goal back early in the second half to set up a tense finale. However, Thep Xanh Nam Dinh responded superbly, scoring a decisive third goal to kill off the match and secure a famous win. The victory provided a massive confidence boost and immediately put them in a strong position in the early group table. The home manager hailed his players' fearless approach, while the Ratchaburi coach conceded his team was second best on the day.