CAHN 2-1 Beijing Guoan: Polking reveals the turning point
Polking admitted that the first half was shaky; pulling Dinh Bac inside at halftime helped CAHN regain control, come from behind to win 2-1 and advance early to the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League Two.
Hanoi Police staged a comeback victory against Beijing Guoan, winning 2-1 at Hang Day Stadium in the fifth matchday of Group E, thus officially securing their place in the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26 one matchday early. Coach Alexandre Polking described the adjustments made at halftime as a turning point that helped the team change the course of the game.
The turning point came during the break.
Speaking after the match, coach Alexandre Polking emphasized the importance of tactical adjustments during halftime: “During halftime, we made adjustments.” The key point was his instruction for Dinh Bac to move inwards, which made a significant difference: “Of course, Dinh Bac moving inwards helped the team a lot thanks to his runs, his effort, and everything he brought. At that point, I believe we started to clearly control the game.”
A shaky first half, but control in the second.
Polking candidly reflected on the first 45 minutes: “CAHN didn't play well in the first half. Beijing Guoan put pressure on us and we conceded a goal from an individual mistake, after which we were somewhat shaken. But the team still tried to maintain our style of play even though we couldn't escape the pressing.”
With adjustments to personnel and positions, Hanoi Police gradually regained their rhythm and control. This change helped the home team overcome the pressure, gradually impose their playing style, and complete a comeback, securing a 2-1 victory.
Reactions and emotions
The victory held double significance: it affirmed the resilience of Hanoi Police in the face of being behind, and showcased their maturity in terms of competitive mentality. At the end of the press conference, Polking praised his players' spirit and the enthusiastic support from the Hang Day Stadium crowd – an energy that fueled their comeback in the second half.
Meaning on the ranking
Three points in the fifth matchday of Group E secured Hanoi Police's early qualification for the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26, with one match remaining in the group stage. This is a direct reward for their tactical adaptability and composure at crucial moments.
Selective statistics
- Score: Hanoi Police 2-1 Beijing Guoan
- Tournament: AFC Champions League Two 2025/26, Group E, Matchday 5
- Location: Hang Day Stadium
- Achievement: CAHN advanced to the Round of 16 one match early.
Other developments
In another match, Nam Định was eliminated from the tournament after losing 0-2 to Ratchaburi in Thailand.
