'SLNA is so annoying'
(Baonghean.vn) - After three consecutive goalless draws, SLNA is truly a challenge for other teams in the V.League. Interestingly, despite their high ranking, SLNA has yet to bring joy to the fans of Nghe An province.
A "tough" opponent for every competitor.
In their last nine matches, SLNA have only lost one game, against the reigning champions Hanoi FC. They have won four and drawn four of the remaining matches.
It's no exaggeration to say that SLNA is currently one of the most "difficult" teams to play against in the V.League. Teams facing SLNA will find it truly challenging because the team from Nghe An now plays with a solid and tenacious defense.
SLNA's defense has only conceded 5 goals so far. Of those, 4 were in the match against Hanoi FC, a loss considered puzzling, and the remaining goal was in the 2-1 home win against Binh Duong.
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| SLNA is displaying a puzzling performance in the 2019 V.League. (Photo: Xuan Thuy) |
It's safe to say that, after the unfortunate departure of Que Ngoc Hai, SLNA's defense seemed poised for difficulties without this national team center-back. However, with the remarkable development of Hoang Van Khanh and the addition of Damir, Nguyen Duc Thang's team's defense is now a real challenge for any attacking line.
One name that cannot be overlooked is goalkeeper Nguyen Manh. Returning after a persistent injury, the goalkeeper from Do Luong has faced no obstacles and is displaying extremely stable form. Nguyen Manh's intelligent goalkeeping, timely positioning, and exceptional reflexes are contributing greatly to his team keeping seven clean sheets.
Phan Văn Đức's return date is uncertain, and Olaha's form has slowed down after his initial explosive performances. It's safe to say that while any opponent can easily secure a draw against SLNA, hoping for three points against them is a significant challenge.
Fans were annoyed too.
Normally, finishing third in the league table is a good achievement, if not a dream for many teams in the V.League. However, without looking at the table, fans in Nghe An would probably think their team is comfortably sitting in the middle of the table.
SLNA's current style of play lacks the necessary passion to truly excite their fans. Their three recent draws showcase a lackluster performance, disappointing fans under coach Nguyen Duc Thang.
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| Nghe An fans covered the Hang Day stadium in yellow. Photo: An Thanh |
It's ironic that despite being firmly in third place, SLNA is receiving so much criticism from its fans. Perhaps, for the fans of Nghe An, the result isn't what they appreciate as much as seeing SLNA demonstrate the fiery passion that is their tradition every time they take to the field.
That's why I say, SLNA is really "annoying" now, "annoying" for their opponents and "annoying" for the fans of Nghe An province.