After several missed opportunities, in the 38th minute, striker Le Thanh Binh scored from close range, assisted by Minh Vuong, opening the scoring for Dong Nai.

On the evening of 2/5, Dong Xoai stadium (formerly Binh Phuoc) was packed with spectators who came to watch the home team compete in round 17 of the First Division 2025-2026 season.

{"caption_all":"This was Dong Nai's first match since the province was upgraded to a centrally-governed city on 30/4. As a result, the club offered free entry to the stadium for fans. Many people without seats had to climb and stand along the fence.","caption_items":["","",""]}

{"caption_all":"A 30-minute music and fireworks show celebrating the city of Dong Nai's glorious historical journey was held before the match.","caption_items":["",""]}

["400 drones projected symbols of Dong Nai City, such as the new map after merging with Binh Phuoc province. Symbols included football and Long Thanh international airport...", "400 drones projected symbols of Dong Nai City, such as the new map after merging with Binh Phuoc province. Symbols included football and Long Thanh international airport...", "400 drones projected symbols of Dong Nai City, such as the new map after merging with Binh Phuoc province. Symbols included football and Long Thanh international airport...", "400 drones projected symbols of Dong Nai City, such as the new map after merging with Binh Phuoc province. Symbols included football and Long Thanh international airport..."]

Fueled by the vibrant atmosphere from the stands and a strong squad featuring players like Luong Xuan Truong and Tran Minh Vuong, the home team played spiritedly, completely outclassing Thanh Nien TP HCM's young players.

Thanh Nien TP HCM currently sits at the bottom of the table, primarily comprising young players from the HAGL academy.

{"caption_all":"In the 33rd minute, Minh Vuong himself broke into the penalty area, chipping the ball past the Thanh Nien TP HCM goalkeeper.","caption_items":["",""]}

{"caption_all":"Dong Nai maintained their dominance in the second half, adding four more goals through Alex Sandro, Trong Hieu, and Quoc Loc (two goals).","caption_items":["",""]}

With an additional three points, the team led by coach Nguyen Viet Thang solidified their position at the top of the table with 41 points, leading second-place Bac Ninh by 6 points.

With only 5 rounds remaining in the season, Dong Nai is closing in on a V-League promotion spot after many years of near misses, despite the absence of Cong Phuong due to injury.

Duc Dong