The Cong Viettel requested an off-field referee for their match against CAHN.
The club has requested that VPF and VFF invite foreign referees to officiate the match against CAHN at 7:45 PM on November 23rd at Hang Day Stadium, in order to reduce pressure on domestic referees and increase transparency.
The Thể Công Viettel team has sent a letter to the Vietnam Professional Football Joint Stock Company (VPF) and the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) requesting that a foreign referee be invited to officiate their match against CAHN in the Round of 16 of the 2025/2026 National Cup. The match will take place at the Hàng Đẫy Stadium at 7:45 PM on November 23rd. According to the club, foreign referees would reduce pressure on the domestic team, increase transparency, and enhance the professional image of the league. The VPF and VFF are currently considering the proposal.
Why suggest a foreign referee?
Representatives from The Cong Viettel emphasized that using foreign referees in important matches helps reduce pressure, create positive public opinion, and enhance professionalism. This is a systemic goal, aimed at building fan trust and creating a fairer, more transparent playing environment in the eyes of international media.
The highlight match of the round of 16.
CAHN are the reigning National Cup champions and advanced to the Round of 16 without having to play in the first round. The Cong Viettel recently defeated Hanoi FC 1-0 to secure their place in the next round. Recent encounters between the two teams have often been dramatic, so refereeing has become a key area of close scrutiny.
Governance and image aspects of the tournament
If the proposal is approved, this would be one of the rare matches in the National Cup to be officiated by a foreign referee. This move aligns with the league's recent focus on improving quality, while also reducing pressure on domestic referees in high-stakes matches.
Picture of the Round of 16
Besides the match between The Cong Viettel and CAHN, this year's National Cup Round of 16 also features 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 FC, promising to create noteworthy contests.
What fans have been waiting for
The decision from VPF and VFF will be the final detail shaping the picture of the highly anticipated match at Hang Day Stadium. Regardless of the approach, the preparations for refereeing in the Round of 16 demonstrate an effort to improve governance and increase fan confidence.
