Ho Chi Minh City vs Hai Phong Match Recap - Nov 1, 2025

On a vibrant evening at Thong Nhat Stadium, Hai Phong solidified their status as a formidable contender in V.League 1 by overcoming Ho Chi Minh City with a final score of 2-1. The match, played on November 1, 2025, saw a determined Hai Phong side come from behind to secure an essential victory, which now positions them firmly within the top half of the league standings.

The home team took an unexpected lead just 19 minutes into the match, showcasing their intent to rally from recent struggles. However, the identity of the scorer remains unknown, lost in the midst of a chaotic opening. This initial advantage took the crowd by surprise, as Ho Chi Minh City, who had been on a rollercoaster of form recently, fought hard to maintain their edge. A previous loss against Công An Nhân Dân had weighed heavily on the minds of their players, and this early goal offered a glimmer of hope to a team that has struggled for consistency throughout the season.

But the match would soon take a dramatic turn. Almost exactly an hour into the game, Hai Phong equalized with a goal in the 59th minute, followed quickly by a second just five minutes later. While the specifics of these goals remain unreported, they transformed the dynamics of the match. The Hai Phong players, full of confidence following their recent form, seized the momentum and left Ho Chi Minh City scrambling for answers.

Hai Phong's recent run of form, including a victory over Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh just days prior, proved vital. They came into this match sitting in 6th place with 35 points, and the win against Ho Chi Minh City solidified their position as a team poised to challenge for a top-four finish. This result could be pivotal as the season pushes towards its conclusion, with only a few matches remaining.

For Ho Chi Minh City, the defeat means lingering doubt and frustration. Placed 10th with 28 points, they now face the overwhelming challenge of breaking free from mid-table mediocrity. Their recent mix of results, including a couple of draws and a solitary win against lower-tier opposition, illustrates a struggle to find a winning formula in V.League 1. The hope sparked by their early lead faded quickly, leaving them to reckon with the reality of their season's trajectory.

Looking ahead, both teams face critical challenges. Ho Chi Minh City is set to travel to Da Nang for their next match, where they must turn their fortunes around if they hope to reclaim any sense of stability. Meanwhile, Hai Phong prepares to face Binh Duong, eager to capitalize on the momentum generated by this win. With the stakes high and time running short, every match carries the weight of a potential game-changer.

As a sports journalist who previewed this encounter, it's worth noting that I expected a fierce battle, driven by the pressing need for Ho Chi Minh City to prove their worth against a high-flying Hai Phong team. While my predictions hinted at a competitive clash, the clear superiority shown by Hai Phong came as a welcome surprise. The match proved how unpredictable this beautiful game can be and reminded us all that form isn't simply about statistics but rather a blend of energy, moments, and determination on the day.

Ultimately, the match served as a reminder that in football, especially in leagues like V.League 1, the slightest shift in momentum can create unexpected outcomes. As the teams regroup, fans will undoubtedly be left pondering: how will each club respond as they look to end their seasons on a high note? The coming weeks will tell a definitive story of resilience and ambition in Vietnamese football.