Ninh Binh vs SLNA: Cautious to keep the top spot in V.League
Ninh Binh, leading with a 33-match unbeaten streak, will host SLNA at 6:00 p.m. on November 5 at Ninh Binh Stadium. Ngoc Quang is absent, Thanh Trung is open; SLNA has full squad.
The 33-match unbeaten streak is Ninh Binh's mental shield, but after a 1-1 draw against Becamex TP.HCM in round 9, the top team enters the match to welcome SLNA (18:00, November 5, Ninh Binh Stadium) with a clear message: caution is the key. The gap with CAHN is only 1 point, while Ninh Binh has played 1 more match, making any mistake can be costly.
| Tournament | Round | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| V.League 2025/26 | Round 10 | Ninh Binh Stadium | 18:00 November 5 (Vietnam time) |
Form and pressure at the top of the table
Ninh Binh still maintained the top position but the 1-1 draw against Becamex TP.HCM exposed two problems: the ability to finish not sharp enough and the concentration at the decisive moment. Leading early and then letting the opponent equalize at the end of the match is always a scenario that makes the top team lose points and confidence. However, the 33-match unbeaten streak - an impressive record in Asian football - shows the quality and tenacity of the team led by coach Gerard Albadalejo.
SLNA under coach Van Sy Son has yet to win, but they are not easily broken. The fighting spirit has improved, the discipline in the squad is better; what is lacking is courage in the final minutes - where points keep falling.
Correlation of forces
Ninh Binh will be without Ngoc Quang due to injury; Thanh Trung is doubtful of playing. However, the quality of Geovane and Daniel up front still ensures attacking weight, while Hoang Duc and Duc Chien provide the foundation to control the midfield.
SLNA has the strongest force. Key players like Olaha, Khac Ngoc and Nam Hai are all ready, providing more options for ball deployment and direct counter-attacks.
Tactics and Hotspots
Ninh Binh are likely to maintain their 4-2-3-1 – a system that helps them control the tempo and attack through the middle. The key is in the finishing: chances are created enough, but the accuracy in the final touches must be improved to avoid a repeat of the previous round.
SLNA can choose 4-4-1-1, putting compactness first. Low-medium defensive block, good coverage on both flanks, and quick transition to find Olaha is the reasonable direction. Khac Ngoc plays the role of moderator, launching early passes into the inner corridor.
The center is the battlefield
The midfield area will decide the situation. For Ninh Binh, Hoang Duc is the fulcrum to launch from low; Geovane often moves into the half space to connect with Daniel. If the home team's passing axis is broken, SLNA will have the opportunity to put speed into the space behind the full-back.
Attack options
Geovane brings the difference with his technique and ability to handle tight spaces, while Daniel is the target in the penalty area. The link between them will be more important without Ngoc Quang, meaning Ninh Binh need to increase their two-stroke attacks: stretching the vertical axis before penetrating the center.
For SLNA, Olaha is the fulcrum to keep the ball and attack the defense. When Khac Ngoc has the ball with his head up, SLNA creates danger from early passes. The balance between patient defense and sharp counterattack will be the biggest test for the away team.
Head to head and notable statistics
- The two teams have never met before.
- Ninh Binh has a 33-match unbeaten streak.
- Ninh Binh is only 1 point ahead of CAHN and has played 1 more match.
Players to watch
- Ninh Binh: Geovane, Daniel – two main attackers; Hoang Duc – conductor keeping the rhythm and initiating.
- SLNA: Olaha – stable striker; Khac Ngoc – creative source in midfield.
Expected lineup
Ninh Binh
- Van Lam, Marcelino, Thanh Thinh, Bao Toan, Quang Nho, Thanh Trung, Duc Chien, Hoang Duc, Thanh Binh, Geovane, Daniel.
SLNA
- Van Binh, Van Huy, Justin, Van Cuong, Manh Quynh, Quang Vinh, Nam Hai, Khac Ngoc, Ba Quyen, Van Luong, Olaha.
Comments and predicted scores
Home advantage and squad quality put Ninh Binh in the upper hand, but the current situation requires pragmatism. SLNA is resilient, energetic, and not afraid to drag the match into a draw. If Ninh Binh does not improve their finishing ability, a draw is possible.
Score prediction: Ninh Binh 1-1 SLNA.
