Pre-match information
In the 2025-2026 season, Adelaide United finished in 2nd place in the Australian National Championship. This achievement shows the quality of the opponent before the confrontation with Cong An Hanoi.
Before that, they also had two friendly matches to prepare for the new season. Playing early helps Adelaide United have better movement and ball feel after the break.
Home field factor is also an advantage of the Australian representative. Adelaide United is used to weather conditions, while Hanoi Police must adapt to cold temperatures in a short time.
Coach Polking's team still maintains training and friendly matches domestically, but the main goal is to prepare for the 2026-2027 season. The squad also has many changes when some new players are added and they need more time to integrate into the team's system.
The greater difficulty lies in personnel. Hanoi Police have to share forces for the Vietnamese team at ASEAN Cup 2026, making the V.League champion not have enough of the best options.
For Adelaide United, victory means a ticket to play in the highest-level arena in Asia. Hanoi Police also want to win the right to continue, but considering preparation conditions, personnel and playground, the Australian representative has more advantages.
