In the rankings, The Cong Viettel is currently 2nd with 42 points. But the gap between them and the leading team Cong An Hanoi has been widened to 12 points. In the match taking place on the evening of May 2, Cong An Hanoi had a 2-0 victory at Hai Phong's stadium.
Meanwhile, Ninh Binh has 37 points, ranked 4th. The most practical goal of the ancient capital team in the remaining period of the season is to break into the Top 3, with two direct competitors being The Cong Viettel and Hanoi FC. Therefore, the result of the match against The Cong Viettel is of great significance.
The Cong Viettel is on an 8-match unbeaten streak in the V.League. However, in the previous round, they unexpectedly drew 3-3 away from the bottom group Da Nang. This result has dealt a heavy blow to coach Popov's team's championship ambition.
With Ninh Binh, they once had a 3-match winning streak in April. However, in the previous round, they suffered a 2-3 home defeat to Hanoi FC. This defeat revealed many limitations in Ninh Binh's playing style, lack of creativity, and the use of many long passes.
In the first leg, Ninh Binh drew 1-1 at home. In terms of relative strength, the ancient capital team still possesses many excellent stars in the squad. However, their form is not really stable. Cohesion and harmony in their playing style are still things they need to improve. The absence of foreign player Patrick Marcelino due to a yellow card will significantly affect their strength.
On the side of The Cong Viettel, they will not have the service of coach Popov due to suspension. This will put them at no disadvantage. However, with home field advantage and stable form, they have many opportunities to defeat their opponent, thereby continuing to chase Hanoi Police in the championship race.
Expected lineups of the two teams:
The Cong Viettel: Van Viet, Tuan Tai, Colona, Bui Tien Dung, Viet Tu, Nhat Nam, Wesley, Cong Phuong, Van Khang, Lucas Vinicius, Pablo Tapeu.
Ninh Binh: Van Lam, Thanh Thinh, Quang Nho, Thai Binh, Tien Anh, Duc Chien, Hoang Duc, Thanh Trung, Quoc Viet, Friday, Geovane.
