Pre-match information
Hoang Anh Gia Lai suddenly fell into a difficult situation in the relegation race. The Mountain Town team is only slightly ahead of the bottom group (3-5 points).
If they do not achieve positive results in the last two rounds, coach Le Quang Trai's team may have to play in the play-offs or even be relegated. In that context, the confrontation with Hanoi FC at Pleiku stadium becomes a match of great significance for the home team.
In the opposite direction, Hanoi FC is also not allowed to stumble. The Capital team is currently in 3rd place, but the advantage over the chasing opponents is insignificant. Just dropping points, the top race situation may change.
In terms of squad, Hanoi FC is still rated higher. The away team possesses many experienced players who were once pillars of the Vietnamese national team such as Duy Manh, Thanh Chung, Hung Dung or Tuan Hai. Meanwhile, Hoang Anh Gia Lai entered the match with a force that no longer has many outstanding stars like in previous periods.
The most notable bright spot on the side of the Mountain Town team is goalkeeper Trung Kien. However, an individual can hardly make a difference against the pressure from a team that is in good form like Hanoi FC.
Under the guidance of coach Harry Kewell, Hanoi FC showed a clear improvement in playing style, especially effective attack.
Meanwhile, Hoang Anh Gia Lai is facing difficulties in both scoring and defending. The Pleiku home team often encounters deadlock in attack, and the defense has many mistakes.
