In a thrilling home opener, Hanoi Police FC wasted no time in asserting their dominance, scoring within the first three minutes of the game. The talented Phan Van Duc showcased his prowess with a skillfully executed long-range shot, leaving the opposing goalkeeper, Siwarak Tedsungnoen, no chance.

This early advantage set the tone for the rest of the match, with star playmaker Nguyen Quang Hai leading a series of strategic attacks. However, despite their best efforts, Hai’s foreign striker partners, Alan Grafite and Vitao Nascimento, were unable to capitalize on several prime opportunities.

As the second half commenced, Buriram United emerged with renewed vigor and a more aggressive strategy. Their persistence paid off in the 49th minute when they equalized, catching Hanoi Police FC’s defense off guard. Jefferson Tabinas was the orchestrator of this comeback, scoring with a well-placed header from close range.

The game then intensified, with both teams displaying their competitive spirit. Hanoi Police FC regained their lead in the 66th minute, thanks to a seamless combination between Grafite and Nascimento, resulting in an accurate cross and a much-needed goal. The heavy rain toward the end of the match added a layer of challenge, slowing down the pace of the game.

Despite their efforts, Buriram United couldn’t find the back of the net again, and it was the impressive goalkeeping of Nguyen Filip that secured the 2-1 victory for Hanoi Police FC. This win marked a strong start for the team in the first match of Group B of the 2024-25 ASEAN Club Championship.

An action-packed moment from Hanoi Police FC’s opening game in Group B of the 2024-25 ASEAN Club Championship at their home ground, Hang Day Stadium, on August 22, 2024. Photo: Hanoi Police FC

The 2024-25 ASEAN Club Championship features a strong Vietnamese contingent, with two local teams in the mix: Thanh Hoa FC, the proud holders of the 2023 National Cup, and Hanoi Police FC, the champions of the 2022-23 V.League 1, Vietnam’s premier football division.

In a spectacular show of resilience, Thanh Hoa FC mounted an impressive comeback against Myanmar’s Shan United, securing a 3-1 victory in their Group A clash. The upcoming group stage matches promise even more excitement, with fixtures scheduled for September 25 and 26.

Thanh Hoa FC will travel to Malaysia to take on Terengganu FC, while Hanoi Police FC will play host to Singapore’s Lion City Sailors. The group stage matches will continue until February 6, 2025, with teams battling it out in a round-robin format to secure their spot in the semifinals and, ultimately, the finals.

With two strong Vietnamese contenders in the mix, the 2024-25 ASEAN Club Championship is shaping up to be an exhilarating tournament, full of dramatic comebacks, strategic gameplay, and impressive displays of athletic prowess.

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