The final match of the 2026 National Women's Football Cup witnessed an exciting match between Hanoi I and Ho Chi Minh City. The capital team did not have the service of striker Pham Hai Yen due to injury, while Ho Chi Minh City fielded an experienced squad with prominent names such as Huynh Nhu, Gabriel or Thu Xuan.
Right after the opening whistle, Hanoi I was the team that started more proactively. Despite facing the defending champion, the capital representative still confidently controlled the ball and organized coordination in the midfield area. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City chose a tight defensive style of play, waiting for opportunities from counter-attacks and set pieces.
The most notable highlight of the first half belonged to a free kick that hit the crossbar by Tran Thi Thu Xuan - a player who just won a gold medal in women's futsal at SEA Games 33. On the Hanoi I side, Bui Thi Thuong and her teammates created many dangerous opportunities but lacked accuracy in the final shots.
In the second half, Hanoi I continued to maintain pressure on Ho Chi Minh City's half. Ngan Thi Van Su's mobility in midfield helped the capital team gain an advantage in the game. However, Hanoi I's attack still could not take advantage of the opportunity to convert it into a goal.
On the Ho Chi Minh City side, despite possessing foreign player Gabriel and many experienced players, the city team also faced difficulties against the opponent's tight defense system.
After 90 minutes of official match without goals, the two teams had to enter a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The bravery of the players who participated in the World Cup helped Ho Chi Minh City create a difference. Goalkeeper Kim Thanh successfully saved 2 shots, while Huynh Nhu and Thuy Trang accurately executed their shots, thereby helping Ho Chi Minh City win 3-0 on penalties to successfully defend the championship.
