The Cong Viettel requested the off-field referee to meet CAHN
The club requested VPF and VFF to invite foreign referees to officiate the match against CAHN at 7:45 p.m. on November 23 at Hang Day, to reduce pressure on domestic referees and increase transparency.
The Cong Viettel has sent a document to VPF and VFF requesting a foreign referee to officiate the match against CAHN in the 1/8 round of the 2025/2026 National Cup. The match will take place at Hang Day Stadium at 7:45 p.m. on November 23. According to the club, foreign referees will help reduce pressure on domestic teams, increase transparency and the professional image of the tournament. VPF and VFF are considering the proposal.
Why foreign arbitration?
The representative of The Cong Viettel emphasized that using foreign referees in important matches helps to limit pressure, create positive public opinion and improve professionalism. This is a systematic goal, aiming at the trust of fans and a fairer and more transparent competition environment in the eyes of the international media.
The highlight match of the round of 16
CAHN are the reigning National Cup champions and have entered the round of 16 without having to play the first round. The Cong Viettel just beat Hanoi FC 1-0 to qualify for the next round. Recent encounters between the two teams have been dramatic, so refereeing has become a closely watched highlight.
Tournament administration and image aspects
If the proposal is approved, this will be one of the rare matches in the National Cup to be officiated by foreign referees. This move is in line with the direction of improving the quality of the tournament in recent seasons, while also reducing pressure on the domestic referee team in hot matches.
Round 1/8 picture
In addition to the match between The Cong Viettel and CAHN, this year's National Cup Round of 16 also has four other matches taking place this weekend. Many familiar V-League teams are participating such as Ha Tinh, Nam Dinh, Hai Phong FC, Ninh Binh and Ho Chi Minh City Club, promising to create remarkable competitions.
What fans are waiting for
The decision from VPF and VFF will be the final detail that will shape the picture of the match at Hang Day. Regardless of the plan, the preparation for the refereeing in the round of 16 is showing an effort to improve management and increase the trust of fans.