Hoang Anh Gia Lai 1-3 XM Hai Phong FC: Hai Phong Cruise to Away Victory

XM Hai Phong FC secured an impressive 3-1 away win against Hoang Anh Gia Lai in the Vietnam National Champion League (V.League 1) on Sunday 13 September 2026. Played at Pleiku Stadium, the match saw Hai Phong produce a clinical counter-attacking performance to silence the home crowd and claim all three points.

Hoang Anh Gia Lai started brightly and enjoyed early possession, but Hai Phong’s organised defence and swift breaks proved decisive. The visitors scored twice in the first half, and although HAGL pulled one back after the break, Hai Phong sealed the win with a third goal late on. The result leaves HAGL with questions to answer, while Hai Phong continue to climb the table.

Match Overview

Hai Phong took the lead in the 18th minute when Joseph Mpande latched onto a through ball and fired past the goalkeeper. Mpande doubled his tally in the 37th minute with a powerful header from a corner, stunning the home supporters. HAGL responded well after half-time and pulled a goal back in the 61st minute through Trần Minh Vương, who finished neatly after a period of sustained pressure. However, Hai Phong restored their two-goal cushion in the 79th minute when Nguyễn Hải Huy curled a shot into the top corner from the edge of the box.

HAGL pushed forward in the final minutes, but Hai Phong’s defence held firm. The visitors managed the game expertly, slowing the tempo and frustrating their opponents. The final whistle confirmed a deserved victory for the away side.

Key Moments

• 18th minute: Joseph Mpande opens the scoring with a composed finish.
• 37th minute: Mpande heads home his second from a corner.
• 61st minute: Trần Minh Vương pulls one back for Hoang Anh Gia Lai.
• 79th minute: Nguyễn Hải Huy restores Hai Phong’s two-goal lead with a stunning strike.
• 90+2nd minute: HAGL’s final effort is cleared off the line as Hai Phong see out the win.

Tactical Story

Hai Phong set up in a compact 4-2-3-1, inviting HAGL to push forward before hitting them on the break with pace and precision. Mpande’s hold-up play and movement were central to their attacking plan, while the midfield duo screened the defence effectively. HAGL, playing a 4-3-3, dominated possession but lacked penetration against a well-drilled back line. Their full-backs pushed high, leaving space in behind, which Hai Phong exploited ruthlessly. The tactical battle was won by the visitors’ discipline and counter-attacking efficiency.

Standout Players

Joseph Mpande was the star of the show with two goals, showcasing his aerial ability and finishing. Nguyễn Hải Huy impressed with his energy and the quality of his late goal, while the Hai Phong goalkeeper made several important saves. For HAGL, Trần Minh Vương was their brightest spark, scoring and creating chances, but the team’s defensive frailties were exposed. The home side’s midfield struggled to track runners, which proved costly.

Season Impact

This victory lifts XM Hai Phong FC into a stronger position in the V.League 1 standings and extends their positive run of form. It also serves as a warning to other teams about their away-day threat. Hoang Anh Gia Lai, meanwhile, remain inconsistent and will need to address their defensive issues if they are to challenge for a top-half finish. With plenty of matches remaining, both sides have time to shape their seasons, but this result will be remembered as a statement win for Hai Phong.