Seizing the home-field advantage, Hai Phong FC proactively deployed attacks right from the start. However, their foreigner players Mpande and Claudecir found it hard to approach the goal of the southern visitors.
Saigon FC, meanwhile, were still faithful to the play style that has helped them maintain an unbeaten run. Vu Tien Thanh’s side patiently defended and proactively launched fast counterattacks thanks to the mobility of spearheads Tan Tai, Minh Trung and Pedro Paulo.
The stalemate was broken in the 33rd minute with Pedro Paulo firing a subtle header from the edge of the box that found the back of the net to the surprise of goalkeeper Van Toan.
After the unexpected goal, Hai Phong FC strengthened their offense in seeking for an equaliser, but could not successfully utilise any opportunities.
(Photo: VPF)
They even conceded a second goal just seconds before the final whistle, as midfielder Geovane Magno drove an unstoppable freekick to seal a convincing 2-0 victory for Saigon FC.
With the triumph, Vu Tien Thanh’s troops moved to top of the V.League standings two points clear of second-placed HCM City.
In other Sunday matches, reigning champions Hanoi FC missed out on a win for the second match in a row after being held 1-1 by Viettel FC, while Quang Nam FC edged past Song Lam Nghe An 2-1 to claim their first victory in five games.
Reigning champions Hanoi FC (in purple) drop the victory for the second match in a row. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)
Matchday 8 of V.League 2020 will continue today (Jul 6) with the four remaining clashes, Thanh Hoa FC vs SHB Da Nang, Hoang Anh Gia Lai vs Hong Linh Ha Tinh, Quang Ninh Coal vs Nam Dinh FC, and HCM City vs Becamex Binh Duong.
