Ninh Binh FC vs. Cong An Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnamese Cup thriller ends in away victory

Cong An Ho Chi Minh City (CAH) secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ninh Binh FC in a Vietnam National Cup second-round clash on 14 June 2026 at the Ninh Binh Stadium. The visitors’ experience in knockout competitions proved decisive as they progressed to the next stage, while Ninh Binh, a second-tier side, bowed out with their heads held high after a spirited performance.

First-half fireworks

The match got off to an electrifying start. Ninh Binh, playing in front of a passionate home crowd, took the lead inside the opening five minutes. A long ball caught the CAH defence sleeping; striker Nguyen Van Cuong pounced, controlled beautifully, and smashed the ball past goalkeeper Bui Tan Truong. The early goal set the tone for an open, end-to-end contest.

Cong An Ho Chi Minh City, a top-tier V-League club, responded with composure. They equalised in the 24th minute when midfield maestro Ho Ngoc Thang curled a free kick over the defensive wall and into the top corner – a moment of pure quality that left the Ninh Binh keeper rooted to his line.

Second-half decider

The pivotal moment arrived in the 58th minute. CAH’s striker Le Van Hung latched onto a through ball from substitute Phan Van Duc and slotted past the advancing Ninh Binh goalkeeper. The visitors then shut up shop, dropping deeper and using their physical advantage to see out the game. Ninh Binh threw numbers forward in the final 20 minutes but lacked the precision needed to find a second equaliser.

Ninh Binh’s best late chance fell to defender Tran Dinh Duong, whose header from a corner sailed just wide of the post in the 83rd minute. The home side were left to rue that miss as the final whistle confirmed their elimination.

Key moments

• 5’ – Nguyen Van Cuong gives Ninh Binh a dream start with a clinical finish.
• 24’ – Ho Ngoc Thang bends in a superb free kick for CAH’s equaliser.
• 58’ – Le Van Hung scores what proves to be the winner after a slick counter-attack.

Match analysis

The result highlighted the difference in quality between a V-League powerhouse and a second-tier side, though Ninh Binh’s early goal showed they were not afraid. CAH’s ability to control the game after taking the lead was key – they have now won four of their last five matches in all competitions and look dangerous in this year’s National Cup.

Ninh Binh FC can take pride in their performance, but defensive lapses at set pieces and on transitions ultimately cost them the chance of an upset. For CAH, the focus now turns to the third round, where they will aim to continue their cup run.

Standout performers

Cong An Ho Chi Minh City’s Le Van Hung was the difference-maker with his goal and tireless running. Ho Ngoc Thang’s set-piece ability was also vital. For Ninh Binh, striker Nguyen Van Cuong showed why he is one of the most dangerous forwards in the second tier with his early strike.

The Vietnamese National Cup continues to produce drama, and this match was a fitting addition to the tournament’s storied history.