Song Lam Nghe An revealed many problems after their loss to HAGL at Vinh Stadium.
Following their defeat against Hoang Anh Gia Lai, coach Van Sy Son pointed out the reasons why Song Lam Nghe An failed to secure any points. Despite controlling the game, the team from Nghe An revealed weaknesses in their finishing and issues with their squad.
BA deadlock in the finishing stage.
The defeat against Hoang Anh Gia Lai in Round 21 of the V.League 2025/26 left many regrets for Song Lam Nghe An. In fact, the home team in Vinh controlled the ball and dictated the game for most of the match. However, that proactive approach did not translate into the necessary effectiveness.
Coach Van Sy Son frankly admitted: "Honestly, our team was unlucky today. Song Lam Nghe An controlled the ball for almost the entire match, controlled the game, but couldn't break through Hoang Anh Gia Lai's 5-4-1 defensive system."
The visiting team's proactive decision to sit deep with a large number of defenders was predictable. Needing only one point to achieve their goal, Hoang Anh Gia Lai opted for a tight defensive approach, minimizing space. This made it difficult for Song Lam Nghe An to mount any attacks.
Despite creating numerous opportunities, the Nghe An team failed to capitalize on them. The lack of sharpness in crucial moments continued to be their biggest weakness.
“We knew they only needed one point at Vinh Stadium. But unfortunately, they scored from a rare opportunity. This is a profound lesson for the players,” coach Van Sy Son shared.
The problem of ineffective finishing wasn't unique to this match; it had been present before. "Not only in this game, but also in the previous match against Hanoi Police, we created many opportunities but unfortunately missed them," Mr. Son added.
The chances of avoiding relegation are still wide open.
Besides technical factors, the squad's strength was also one of the reasons affecting Song Lam Nghe An's results. The absence of two central defenders meant the defensive system could no longer maintain the necessary solidity, and the team paid the price from a rare opportunity created by the opponent.
Nevertheless, coach Van Sy Son still praised the fighting spirit of his players: "I am proud of the players' spirit. The important thing is that we controlled the ball and controlled the game. However, the finishing was not to my satisfaction."
With a squad featuring many young players, the role of captain Michael Olaha becomes even more crucial. The striker not only takes on the responsibility of scoring goals but also plays a leading role in terms of morale.
“Olaha is working very hard. I don't want to compare him to any other player. Olaha is pushing himself to guide the young players of Song Lam Nghe An. His efforts are very commendable,” emphasized coach Van Sy Son.
Despite the defeat, the door to survival in the league remains wide open for Song Lam Nghe An. The current points difference still provides a certain advantage, but it's not enough to be complacent with five rounds remaining in the season.
"There are still five matches left, so it's too early to say anything for sure. Theoretically, we don't have enough points to avoid relegation yet. Therefore, the whole team needs to cherish every point in the remaining matches. I and the players will try to regain our balance," coach Van Sy Son affirmed.
The defeat against Hoang Anh Gia Lai served as a necessary warning. If they don't improve their shortcomings soon, Song Lam Nghe An will easily fall under pressure. However, if they quickly identify their mistakes and maintain their fighting spirit, the team from Nghe An can completely decide their own fate in this season's relegation battle.
