Song Lam Nghe An vs. Dong Thap: An unpredictable scenario.

It should not be underestimated.

Despite their recent poor form, Dong Thap FC remains a formidable opponent. Under the guidance of coach Phan Thanh Binh, the team from the Mekong Delta is building a playing style based on ball control and small-group coordination. This tactic has sometimes given them a degree of control; however, the consistency of this approach has been lacking, causing Dong Thap difficulties during crucial stages of the season.

In terms of personnel, the team has made notable additions with players like Phan Tấn Tài, Trần Thành, and Lê Trung Vinh. However, their biggest weakness lies in their defense, conceding goals at crucial moments. Consecutive defeats against Bình Phước, Phù Đổng, Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu, and Phố Hiến have pushed Đồng Tháp down to 8th place in the National First Division, showing that they are not an insurmountable challenge, but should not be underestimated either.

Caution prevents misfortune.

On the other side of the battle lines,Lam River, Nghe AnThey are showing signs of improvement after a less-than-smooth start to the season. Two wins, one draw, and only one loss in their last four matches have helped the Nghe An team escape the bottom of the table in the V-League 2024/25, creating a favorable psychological momentum ahead of the quarter-final match.

The addition of two experienced players, Khac Ngoc and Van Khanh, has significantly improved the quality of Song Lam Nghe An's squad. The defense is more solid, and the attack has become sharper as the 4-2-3-1 formation has gradually proven to work smoothly. As a result, the team from Nghe An has reduced defensive errors and increased the diversity of their attacking options.

Furthermore, home advantage is also a significant factor that gives Song Lam Nghe An added confidence. With the support of their fans, the team from Nghe An always has a stronger fighting spirit.

Song Lam Nghe An also holds a clear advantage in head-to-head records against Dong Thap, having won 4 and drawn only 1 of their last 5 encounters. However, in football, there is no room for complacency. Dong Thap, despite being considered the underdog, could still become a "dark horse" in a knockout match, where every mistake can be costly.

Tactically, Song Lam Nghe An will likely adopt an aggressive style of play, prioritizing ball control and exploiting attacks from the flanks. Having speedy players like Van Cuong and Long Vu will allow them to easily launch quick counter-attacks. Meanwhile, Dong Thap will play defensively, waiting for mistakes from their opponents to exploit.

A victory would give the Nghe An team their first title under Tan Long's leadership, and to achieve that, they need to be cautious and maintain their composure on the field.