The Cong Viettel Cruise to Dominant 2–0 Win Over Hong Linh Ha Tinh in V.League 1

The Cong Viettel produced a polished away performance to defeat Hong Linh Ha Tinh 2–0 at the Ha Tinh Stadium on May 10, 2026, keeping their title push firmly on track. The visitors were superior in all departments, with two well-taken goals ensuring a comfortable evening under the lights.

Match Summary

From the opening exchanges, The Cong Viettel asserted control, dominating possession and creating several early chances. Hong Linh Ha Tinh, known for their resilience at home, struggled to contain the movement of Viettel's attacking trio. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc curled a beautiful free kick over the wall and into the top corner.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Viettel doubled their lead in the 57th minute when forward Pedro Paulo latched onto a through ball from Bui Tien Dung and slotted calmly past the goalkeeper. The home side rarely threatened, and Viettel goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan had a quiet night, making only a couple of routine saves.

Key Moments

• 23' – Nguyen Hoang Duc opens the scoring with a stunning free kick.
• 45' – Hong Linh's Le Van Khoa sees his header tipped over the bar.
• 57' – Pedro Paulo makes it 2–0 with a clinical finish after a swift counter-attack.
• 72' – Viettel's Khuat Van Khang hits the crossbar from 20 yards.

Tactical Analysis

Viettel manager Lee Young-jin set up in a fluid 4-3-3, with the full-backs pushing high to overload Hong Linh's midfield. The home side's 3-5-2 formation left them exposed in wide areas, and Viettel exploited that ruthlessly. The midfield trio of Nguyen Duc Chien, Bui Tien Dung, and Nguyen Hoang Duc dominated possession and dictated the tempo.

League Context

The victory kept The Cong Viettel in second place in the Vietnam National Champion League, just three points behind leaders Hanoi FC, with 12 matches remaining. Hong Linh Ha Tinh, meanwhile, remained in 11th place, only four points above the relegation playoff spot. Their lack of attacking creativity is becoming a growing concern.

Man of the Match: Nguyen Hoang Duc (The Cong Viettel) – a goal and an all-round midfield masterclass.