The Rise of a Phenomenon in Vietnam’s V-League 1

Despite lacking star players, a new management board, and a new coach, a team in Vietnam’s top-flight professional football tournament V-League 1 has become a remarkable phenomenon. The team’s success and performance have captivated audiences and garnered attention.

Saigon FC, originally founded as Hanoi FC in 2011, made the strategic decision to relocate to Ho Chi Minh City in 2016.

The club achieved a fifth-place finish in the 2019 V-League 1 season and is currently seeking its first championship title.

Prior to the commencement of the 2020 season, the coach of Saigon FC decided to step down, leading to the chairman taking charge of training sessions as the club hastily sought a new management board.

Saigon FC emerged victorious in spite of the changes, recording victories over both 2019 champions Hanoi FC and 2019 runners-up Ho Chi Minh City FC on their respective home fields. As a result, Saigon FC secured the top spot in the league standings during the initial phase of this year’s competition.

The club has only suffered one loss throughout the 13 games in the first half of the season.

Players of Saigon FC (purple) and Hong Linh Ha Tinh FC vie for possession during their match in the sixth round of the 2020 V-League 1 at Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City, June 24, 2020. Photo: Saigon FC

After assuming control of the team, the newly-appointed management board has made the decision to maintain the current coaching staff and team roster, demonstrating their confidence in their abilities.

The club has recently entered into a significant partnership agreement with FC Tokyo from Japan on April 30th. This collaboration aims to facilitate cooperation in various aspects, including football school initiatives and overall club management.

The club recently unveiled its new home base, the Thanh Long Sports Center, where the team will reside and train.

The facility will also serve as the home for a newly founded youth football academy and a network of community football schools.

Capella Group Joint Stock Company is responsible for providing the club’s nutrition regimen.

The management board has made a commitment to provide footballers with training for future coaching careers, should they choose to remain connected to the club after retiring.

Leaders of Vietnam’s Saigon FC and Japan’s FC Tokyo celebrate the signing of their comprehensive partnership agreement in April 2020. Photo: Dang Hoang / Tuoi Tre

Living within one’s means

Saigon FC has set a modest goal for 2020, aiming to finish in the top eight out of the league’s 14 teams. This target is set despite their previous season’s achievement of finishing in the top five.

According to the latest regulations of V-League 1, the teams will be divided into two divisions following the initial 13 rounds.

A total of eight top-ranking teams will engage in a single round-robin format to contend for the esteemed championship title. Meanwhile, the remaining six teams will fiercely vie to evade relegation to V-League 2.

According to Saigon FC’s initial goal, their low target seemed realistic considering the circumstances of the team. However, their actual potential for success far exceeded expectations as evidenced by their successful qualification for the top eight after the ninth round of matches.

Saigon FC players and their coaching staff members pose for a photo after their 2-0 win against Hai Phong FC at Lach Tray Stadium in Hai Phong City, Vietnam, July 5, 2020. Photo: Saigon FC

Applying Technology

There were concerns among fans about the future of Saigon FC following the departure of their previous coach. However, head coach Vu Tien Thanh has successfully silenced those doubters with his performance.

Thanh, with 15 years of experience in pursuing higher education in football business and staying updated on the latest football training methodology, brought a refreshing and comfortable atmosphere to the club upon taking over as their leader.

He has utilized visual-thinking technology and animation football software to enhance the team’s strategic game planning.

The players are actively encouraged to provide feedback on the team’s strategies and are given the opportunity to directly comment on the training plan created by the coaching board in advance.

Before each match, the coaching staff meticulously analyzes the opponents and formulates a strategy, ensuring that player responsibilities are openly communicated by the management board.

This innovative coaching approach has enabled the team to achieve their maximum potential, even without any star players in the line-up.

Players of Saigon FC wave at supporters after their game against Ho Chi Minh City FC in the V-League 1’s fourth round in Ho Chi Minh City, June 12, 2020. Photo: Dang Hoang / Tuoi Tre News Contributor

Our philosophy is centered around the idea of unity and interconnectedness. We strongly believe that we are all part of a greater whole, and by working together, we can achieve amazing things. This philosophy guides our actions and decisions, and drives us to foster collaboration and build strong relationships with our stakeholders.

The guiding principle of Saigon FC is “We Are One” – a unified team and familial community.

As a united family, every member shares the collective responsibility of strengthening the team. We strive to consistently display our best selves, both on and off the field, while practicing a unifying and cohesive approach.

Saigon FC embodies the spirit of unity and camaraderie throughout its entire organization. From the dedicated management board and talented football team to the diligent front office staff, we all come together to share in life’s ups and downs, supporting and listening to one another.

Investors have also shown faith in the leadership and coaching capabilities of Chairman Vu Tien Thanh.

Saigon FC prioritizes the philosophy that “football is humanity.”

The members of our club actively participate in various philanthropic endeavors and community events, driven by the selfless desire to make a difference without any expectations of reciprocation.

The combination of their motto, philosophy, and continuous improvement has propelled them to their current success.

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