Ninh Binh came from behind to win 2-1, reaching the milestone of 36 unbeaten matches in Asia.
Ninh Binh came from behind to win 2-1 at Lach Tray, extending their unbeaten streak in regular time to 36 matches – a first in Asian history.
Ninh Binh came from behind to win 2-1 at Lach Tray in the Round of 16 of the 2025/26 National Cup, extending their unbeaten streak in regular time to 36 matches. Based on their journey across two seasons, this marks the first time an Asian representative has achieved this milestone, affirming the new status of the team from the ancient capital.
Comeback 2-1: The team's character is in form.
Ninh Binh faced their biggest challenge of the season so far when they visited Hai Phong – a team in high form and with the home advantage at Lach Tray Stadium. The home team took an early lead in the 10th minute after a fast-paced combination, forcing Ninh Binh to chase the game under intense pressure.
In the first half, Ninh Binh's attacking plays were repeatedly disrupted, and their midfield lacked cohesion. The turning point came after the break: Coach Gerard Albadalejo pushed the team's formation higher, increasing the speed of ball circulation, allowing the visitors to regain control.
Hoang Duc appeared at the right moment to finish accurately, equalizing the score at 1-1. Towards the end of the match, Daniel calmly converted the penalty, securing a 2-1 victory and marking Ninh Binh's 36-match unbeaten streak in regular time.
Key developments
- 10th minute: Hai Phong scored against Van Lam after a fast-paced combination play.
- Second half: Ninh Binh changed the tempo and height of their formation, regaining control of the game.
- Equalizing goal: Hoang Duc finished accurately to level the score.
- Decision: Daniel successfully converted the penalty at the end of the match, securing a 2-1 victory.
Adjustments to coach Gerard Albadalejo's tactics.
Unlike the first half, after the break, Ninh Binh proactively pushed their formation higher, shortening the gap between players and increasing the speed of ball development. As a result, the midfield regained cohesion, creating multiple layers of attacks on the penalty area and maintaining continuous pressure. These adjustments in tempo and positioning allowed Ninh Binh to control transitional situations – the foundation for Hoang Duc's equalizer and the play that led to the penalty at the end of the match.
The role of Hoang Duc and a source of spiritual support.
Captain Hoang Duc was a key link in Ninh Binh's 36-match unbeaten streak, participating in 33 out of 36 games. His influence in the midfield helped Ninh Binh maintain their playing structure and stability during difficult periods.
Speaking after the match, Hoang Duc emphasized:“The most important thing is focus and a desire to win. The whole team is always highly determined in every match. Hopefully, we can maintain this form in 2026.”
Selected data
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Match | Hai Phong vs Ninh Binh, Round of 16, National Cup 2025/26 |
| Location | Lach Tray |
| Result | Ninh Binh won 2-1 (they were behind in the 10th minute, equalized, and won from a penalty kick at the end of the match). |
| Unbeaten streak | 36 matches in regular time (a first in Asia) |
| Personal highlights | Hoang Duc participated in 33 out of 36 matches. |
| Previous season's performance | Champions of the 2024/25 Championship, with only one draw. |
| V.League kick-off | He defeated Ha Tinh, Thanh Hoa, and SHB Da Nang; he is unbeaten in 11 V.League matches. |
| National Cup 2025/26 | Two wins, advance to the quarterfinals. |
From phenomenon to power
The consecutive results from the 2024/25 First Division to the 2025/26 V.League and National Cup show that Ninh Binh is no longer just a fleeting phenomenon. Their scientific, disciplined playing style and ability to flexibly adjust to matches help them maintain high performance in various contexts.
The momentum and unbeaten streak are propelling Ninh Binh to the forefront as a contender for both the V.League and the National Cup. Their 36-match unbeaten run is not only a record but also a statement of the team's competitive spirit for the 2025/26 season.
