Unlike previous champions who secured their victories early, Nam Dinh's path to the title was fraught with challenges, culminating in their triumph in the penultimate round following a decisive win over Khanh Hoa at Thien Truong Stadium.
Nam Dinh Green Steel's success is a testament to significant investment over the past two seasons, bringing in top-tier V-League talents, both domestic and international, such as Hong Duy, Van Toan, Hendrio, and Rafaelson. This bolstered the team’s depth, creating one of the strongest squads in the league.
The fervent support of Nam Dinh fans, who consistently lead in attendance, played a crucial role in this victory. The final match saw over 30,000 fans flock to Thien Truong Stadium, underscoring their unwavering dedication.
With such passionate support and substantial investment, Nam Dinh Green Steel's reclaiming of the V-League championship after nearly 40 years is a well-deserved triumph.
The championship of Nam Dinh Green Steel also brings a smile to Mr. Doan Nguyen Duc (Boss Duc), the owner of Hoang Anh Gia Lai FC. This might seem paradoxical, but Mr. Duc has valid reasons to be pleased. Among the champions are several players nurtured at the HAGL JMG Arsenal academy, including Van Toan, Hong Duy, and especially Tuan Anh.
For many of Mr. Duc's protégés, this is their first V-League championship, a milestone they had long aspired to achieve since their time at the Ham Rong football academy nearly a decade ago.
Mr. Duc's "fairplay" decision to allow these players to leave HAGL and seek new opportunities was a commendable move. This decision has enabled them to achieve greater success in their careers, something that might have been elusive had they stayed.
Without Mr. Duc’s contribution, Nam Dinh’s victory would still be likely given their financial strength and passion for football. However, witnessing Van Toan, Hong Duy, and especially Tuan Anh, who has long been seen as a player destined for greatness, celebrate their victory highlights the significance of Mr. Duc's decision.
Nam Dinh Green Steel’s championship victory is well-earned, and Mr. Duc deserves acknowledgment, particularly from players like Van Toan, Tuan Anh, and Hong Duy, who owe a part of their success to the opportunities he provided. After over a decade of dedication, these players can finally celebrate the culmination of their efforts.
Duy Nguyen