The physical transformation of Song Lam Nghe An
From a team that seemed to run out of steam in the second half, SLNA has now undergone a physical transformation. The players not only maintained consistent performance throughout the 90 minutes but also had enough energy to accelerate and "finish off" their opponents in the final seconds.
Physical fitness is a crucial factor in a team's success. It not only affects performance but also helps to prevent injuries.
In the last two seasons,Lam River, Nghe AnThey faced many challenges, often experiencing a decline in performance in the final minutes of matches. From the 60th minute onwards, opponents frequently exploited this weakness. Even more unfortunately, many players such as Tran Dinh Hoang, Le Nguyen Hoang, Le Van Thanh, and Ho Khac Luong suffered injuries due to insufficient fitness.

Recognizing the problem, the SLNA coaching staff decided to strengthen the players' physical fitness. The appointment of fitness coach Pham Bui Minh is considered a crucial step. With an AFC-certified A-level fitness certificate and many years of experience at the Song Lam Nghe An Youth Football Training Center, Mr. Minh has brought scientific and systematic training methods to enhance endurance, strength, and speed.
During the V-League break to make way for the Vietnamese national team's participation in the ASEAN Cup 2024, Song Lam Nghe An implemented a rigorous training plan. The exercises were scientifically designed, gradually increasing in difficulty. Simultaneously, the team focused on exercises that increased running time, developed muscles, and improved physical fitness, helping players withstand intense tackles.

In addition, coach Pham Bui Minh also focuses on exercises to improve speed and acceleration. The Song Lam Nghe An players not only improve their strength but also train their agility, helping them maintain speed and stamina throughout the match. This change is especially important when the team has to face strong opponents, where a difference in physical fitness can affect the outcome of the match.
One of the prominent methods in the training program is the application of high-intensity interval training. This method helps players increase endurance and maintain fitness throughout the 90 minutes of play. In addition, the nutritional regime is also adjusted to ensure that players have sufficient energy and the ability to recover quickly.
After two months of improving their fitness, Song Lam Nghe An returned to the V-League 2024/25 with a completely different look. The players now not only maintain consistent form but also possess the ability to accelerate unexpectedly. The clearest evidence of this is Tran Manh Quynh's spectacular goal against Binh Duong. Even though the match had passed the 90th minute, Manh Quynh and his teammates still displayed agility, composure, and speed to create the decisive goal that gave Song Lam Nghe An their first victory in the V-League 2024/25. This goal not only showed individual progress but also reflected the effective training process of the entire team.
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After the match, coach Phan Như Thuật couldn't hide his joy, sharing: "After a two-month break, the team has shown positive improvements in physical fitness and playing style. This is an important factor in helping SLNA regain its form."
Not only has Song Lam Nghe An improved their physical fitness, but their fighting spirit is also at a high level. The strenuous training sessions and the sweat on the training ground have helped the players become more resilient. This gives great confidence to the fans of Nghe An province as they strive to avoid relegation this season.