Cong Phuong hints at the possibility of joining SLNA.

(Baonghean.vn) - Returning to his hometown for the third time to face SLNA, HAGL striker Nguyen Cong Phuong said that playing at Vinh Stadium is not a pressure for him.

The highly anticipated match between SLNA and HAGL takes place against the backdrop of both teams suffering defeats in the previous round. While SLNA only has 9 points after 9 matches, HAGL is not much better, ranking just above SLNA with 10 points. This is a disappointing performance for two teams with currently strong youth development programs.

Striker Nguyen Cong Phuong is eager to prove himself to his hometown fans in the match against SLNA. Photo: Trung Kien.

Speaking to Nghe An Newspaper during a training session in preparation for the match against SLNA, HAGL coach Nguyen Quoc Tuan said: "Nothing can be said for sure, but the only thing that worries me is that the pitch at Vinh Stadium is currently in very poor condition and it may affect the quality of the match. We have prepared very carefully for this match, and I hope that the home team players and HAGL will give the audience a very emotional game."

Meanwhile, striker Nguyen Cong Phuong, one of the key players in this match, also showed high determination ahead of the clash with SLNA.

Responding to the love and support from fans in Nghe An province, the 1995-born striker shared: "I am very grateful for the fans' affection, but I am a professional player so I will play my best for the team. I hope I can score against SLNA..."

Upon returning to his hometown, the striker from Do Luong received special attention from fans. Photo: Trung Kien.

When asked about the possibility of returning to his hometown team in the near future, Cong Phuong was rather evasive: "You can't predict the future, but right now I want to focus on giving my best for my club and our immediate goals."

During yesterday's training session at Vinh Stadium, the Nghe An fans were constantly amazed by the ball-handling skills of the HAGL stars. Without midfield "experts" like Quang Tinh and Hoang Thinh, if SLNA doesn't effectively utilize their collective play and fiery spirit on the field, the Nghe An team will certainly face many difficulties against the technically skillful passing and combination play of the team from the mountainous region.

The intensity of the rivalry may not be as fierce as before, however, the match between SLNA and HAGL still receives special attention from viewers. In terms of squad strength, HAGL almost has its strongest lineup. As for SLNA, center-back Minh Duc and midfielder Ngoc Toan have fully recovered from injuries and are ready to play.

Unfortunately, Công Phượng's former teammates in the Vietnam U23 and senior national teams, Mạnh Hùng and Đình Hoàng, were unable to participate in this match due to injuries.

Trung Kien