Nghe An Derby: Song Lam Nghe An capitalizes on their victory.

The history of their head-to-head encounters is balanced.

Since Ha Tinh had a representative in the V.League, matches against SLNA have always been intense, tense, but also full of dedication.

In their approximately 10 encounters in the V.League, the balance has been very slightly tilted towards the Nghe An team, with 2 wins, 1 loss, and 7 draws. These numbers speak volumes about the parity. Neither team is truly superior, and therefore, each meeting carries the potential for unpredictable outcomes.

The first leg of this season at Vinh Stadium is a memory that SLNA surely hasn't forgotten. They took the lead. They had a man advantage after a Ha Tinh player was sent off. Everything seemed to be in favor of the home team. However, Song Lam Nghe An displayed a disorganized style of play and a lack of control over the game.

In round 4, SLNA played disjointedly, their midfield outmatched by the strength and mobility of their opponents. Players like Trong Hoang, Viktor Le, and Onoja constantly disrupted their defense, preventing the yellow-shirted team from organizing coherent attacks. Despite having a man advantage, SLNA still couldn't control the ball or create enough pressure to finish the game.

The equalizer came as an inevitable consequence. That 1-1 draw was nothing short of a defeat. Not only because they dropped two points at home, but also because of SLNA's disjointed play, lack of cohesion, and demoralized fighting spirit.

Looking back, the derby has never been easy for Song Lam Nghe An. However, in this return leg, Song Lam Nghe An has shown more positive signs.

Pressing on the momentum

The explosive 4-1 victory against The Cong Viettel at Hang Day Stadium has brought a new lease of life. After the loss to Hanoi FC, coach Van Sy Son decided to revert to the familiar 4-4-2 system. This formation has helped SLNA play more disciplined, tighter, and especially sharper in transitions.

That victory was certainly not without controversy, especially regarding Viettel's disallowed goal. But putting aside the noise, it's undeniable that SLNA played a high-energy game, knowing their strengths and weaknesses and making good use of their opportunities. Counter-attacking defense became their sharpest weapon, allowing them to punish their opponents with fast-paced attacks.

Most importantly, it's about spirit. After the humiliating defeat against Hanoi FC, SLNA showed they had instilled a determined spirit. The players' efforts have created a more combative team than before.

Meanwhile, Ha Tinh is not an easy opponent to bully either. Their recent 1-1 draw at Thien Truong Stadium against Nam Dinh is clear evidence of this. Despite being outmatched in terms of ball control and shots on goal, they patiently waited for their opportunity and punished their opponents in injury time. Their tenacity and never-give-up spirit are remarkable strengths of the team from Hong Mountain.

Therefore, if they want to capitalize on their momentum, SLNA needs more than just inspiration. They must neutralize the opponent's dangerous attacking threats, especially aerial balls and quick counter-attacks. The midfield must play with focus, avoiding losing possession in sensitive areas, as they did in the first leg.

At the same time, SLNA also needs to maintain composure in their finishing. A moment of brilliance can decide the entire match, and with the rising form of the duo Olaha and Dale Moore, a victory for Song Lam Nghe An is not beyond imagination.

SLNA fans have every right to be optimistic. When SLNA plays with passion and a sound tactical approach, they are perfectly capable of overcoming any opponent of equal caliber. And that is very likely to be demonstrated by Coach Van Sy Son's team in their match against Hong Linh Ha Tinh in Round 14 of the V.League 2025/26.

The match between Hong Linh Ha Tinh and Song Lam Nghe An will take place on February 28th at the Ha Tinh stadium.