V-League runner-up helpless against "double-decker bus" in Khanh Hoa

Hanoi T&T is showing very unconvincing performance in this year's V-League. (Photo: Minh Chien/Vietnam+)

The reigning runner-up Hanoi T&T unexpectedly suffered a 0-1 defeat against Sanna Khanh Hoa BVN in the 10th round of the V-League yesterday afternoon (April 18).

Playing against an opponent that was rated much higher than them, Sanna Khanh Hoa took the initiative to defend despite playing at home. Meanwhile, the reigning runner-up Ha Noi T&T pressed forward to attack and quickly dominated the game from the first minutes.

But before the visitors could warm up, they unexpectedly conceded a goal. In the 17th minute, veteran goalkeeper Hong Son mishandled the ball, allowing Uche to pass back for Santos to head the ball in to open the score. Sanna Khanh Hoa was surprised to find themselves leading Hanoi T&T.

That unexpected advantage quickly created conditions for them to maximize the effectiveness of their counter-attacking defense. A two-layer defense system (sometimes three layers) was arranged in front of Tuan Manh's goal.

On a day when this young goalkeeper played so well, Khanh Hoa denied all opportunities from Hanoi T&T's best players. Hoang Vu Samson, Gonzalo, Van Quyet and Golden Ball Thanh Luong were all helpless.

The 1-0 score was maintained until the end of the match, bringing 3 unexpected points to Sanna Khanh Hoa. As for Hanoi T&T, they can soon say goodbye to the championship race.

Starting lineup

Sanna Khanh Hoa BVN:Tuan Manh - Van Vu, Dos Santos, Tan Dien, Trong Binh - Hoai An, Van Trien, Tan Tai (Viet Dan 57'), Quoc Chi - Viet Binh (Dinh Nhon 67'), Uche

Hanoi T&T:Hong Son - Van Bien, Cyrus, Hong Tien, Quoc Long (Ngoc Duc 87') - Van Hieu, Duy Manh, Thanh Luong (Ngoc Duy 70'), Van Quyet - Hoang Vu Samson, Gonzalo

Goal:Tales Ricarte Dos Santos (17')

According to VNE