Trouncing Khanh Hoa 4-0, Hanoi extend unbeaten run

>>> V.League Review: Hoang Anh Gia Lai break into top four

Playing at home, Hanoi earned a good start cheered on by the home fans. The capital football team launched continuous attacks on their opponents’ goal, despite the absence of their top scorer, Nigerian striker Oseni, due to suspension.

The opening goal came very early for Hanoi, in the 9th minute, thanks to their continuous pressure. From a good cross by Van Kien, Van Dai passed the ball to Van Thanh in the box and the latter netted the first goal of the match.

Inspired by the opener, Hanoi strengthened their attacks and the second goal came just two minutes later, with Ngan Van Dai’s stunning volley doubling the lead for the hosts.

Hanoi and Khanh Hoa players in action. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)

Vice-captain Thang Luong and his teammates constantly put pressure on Khanh Hoa and the next goal came as the guests could not cause the home team any problems. From a corner kick in the 41st minute, Doan Van Hau beat Youssouf Toure in an ariel duel to score a header into the far corner, extending the score to 3-0 for Hanoi. It was the final result of the first half.

In the second half, Hanoi continued to deploy their eye-catching technical playing style. Khanh Hoa chose to make constant fouls to prevent the attacking power from the home team.

Not too many opportunities were created in the second half but Quang Hai still left an impression with a beautiful free kick in the 87th minute to make it 4-0 for the hosts.

Hanoi’s Quang Hai (R) had an outstanding match. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)

In the other match, hosts Hoang Anh Gia Lai welcomed manger Miura and his Ho Chi Minh City team, with seven consecutive unbeaten games on their back. Coach Duong Minh Ninh seemed to continue the chain of impressive performance when Van Toan and Cong Phuong provided a 2-0 lead to their home team in the early second half.

However, substitute Huynh Van Thanh narrowed the gap to 1-2 for the guests in the 68th minute, before Do Van Thuan leveled 2-2 one minute later. This was also the final score of the match.