Song Lam Nghe An and its "transformation" under coach Van Sy Son.

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After round 19 of the V.League 2025/26, Song Lam Nghe An is currently ranked 8th in the standings with 24 points. This is a position that few would have dared to achieve at the beginning of the season. Notably, in their last 7 matches, the team from Nghe An has won 4, drawn 2, and lost only 1.

That change didn't come from big signings, but from the approach of coach Van Sy Son. A coach who understands the team, understands the people, and knows how to start with what's most important.

The first thing he did was rekindle the fighting spirit. Before that, Song Lam Nghe An had a period where they played without energy, easily losing direction when faced with difficulties. That image contradicted the inherent identity of Nghe An football.

When Van Sy Son arrived, that gradually changed. He made the players more aware of their responsibilities on the field, leading them to play more aggressively, not shying away from physical contact, and maintaining focus until the end of the match.

The most important factor in Song Lam Nghe An's resurgence is their spirit. When their squad wasn't superior, the team from Nghe An chose to rely on their fighting spirit. And when that spirit was awakened at the right time, they immediately became different.

What's noteworthy is that Coach Van Sy Son's approach isn't general. He addresses each specific case, sharing insights, making adjustments, sometimes being flexible, sometimes firm, to help the players change.

Dale Moore's case is a clear example. From a period of inconsistent performance and poor mental state, the striker gradually regained his form and scored important goals. This is a testament to the coaching staff's effective work.

Read match fight sharp cunning

If spirit is the foundation, then tactics are the element that helps Song Lam Nghe An operate more effectively. This is also where the mark of coach Van Sy Son is clearly evident.

In terms of personnel, the Nghe An team hasn't undergone many major changes. But with the same players, their playing style is different. They know when to defend, when to press, when to drop deep, and when to push forward to create opportunities.

That's the kind of game a team plays to avoid relegation. They don't try to do things beyond their capabilities, but choose the most effective option with the resources they have.

The defense used to be a weakness for Song Lam Nghe An, but under the adjustments of Van Sy Son, with the same players, the defensive system has gradually become more solid. Not perfect, but at least it has reduced systemic errors.

Another noteworthy point is their ability to read the game. Coach Van Sy Son doesn't impose a fixed playing style. Depending on the opponent and the situation, Song Lam Nghe An adopts different approaches. In some matches, they play defensively and wait for counter-attacks; in others, they proactively control the tempo; and in still others, they play more directly. This flexibility makes the team difficult to predict.

Even the decision to bring Carlos Fortes in showed careful planning. Initially, many considered it an unnecessary addition, but in reality, Fortes not only provided a new attacking option but also created competition, helping Dale Moore improve his form. It must be said that this move by coach Van Sy Son yielded a double benefit for SLNA.

Besides his professional expertise, Coach Van Sy Son's ability to maintain stability in the dressing room is also crucial. In a situation where some players are nearing the end of their contracts, some are starters, and others are substitutes, it's easy for morale to waver. However, he has maintained balance, helping the players understand their roles within the team.

Looking back at the season, it's safe to say that Song Lam Nghe An's decision to change coaches was timely. Van Sy Son brings what the team needs most: clarity in their playing style, stability in their mentality, and a suitable direction.

With 24 points after 19 rounds, and an 11-point lead over the second-to-last team, Song Lam Nghe An is in a much more comfortable position. Their goal of avoiding relegation is becoming increasingly clear.

Furthermore, if they continue to maintain their current form, the Nghe An team can certainly aim for a higher position than initially expected.

The most important thing for the fans is that they are seeing a Song Lam Nghe An team that is spirited, organized, and confident again. And in that journey, the biggest mark belongs to coach Van Sy Son.

Duc Anh