HAGL crowned champions of the Four-Team Tournament with an unbelievable scenario

The 2025 Thai Nguyen Four-Team Football Tournament ended with Hoang Anh Gia Lai claiming the championship following tense and exciting games, where the race for first place was determined only by goal difference.

On the evening of December 27, the 2025 Thai Nguyen Four-Team Football Tournament officially wrapped up at Thai Nguyen Provincial Stadium, a newly inaugurated venue with a seating capacity exceeding 22,000. The competition ran from December 21 to 27, featuring four professional teams: Hoang Anh Gia Lai, PVF Public Security, Hanoi FC, and Viettel Army, creating a lively atmosphere with high-quality football.

Entering the final round, Hoang Anh Gia Lai held a significant advantage as the league leaders and needed only a victory to secure the championship. However, the Mountainous City team faced many challenges against PVF Public Security, who started the match with strong determination despite being at the bottom of the table. PVF-CAND’s aggressive pressing and speed disrupted Hoang Anh Gia Lai’s game plan.

The turning point came in the 24th minute when Joseph Mpande powered down the right flank before delivering a precise cross for Amarildo to leap and head in the opening goal. Trailing, Hoang Anh Gia Lai pushed forward to equalize, but their efforts were thwarted by a well-organized defense and outstanding goalkeeper Phi Minh Long. The match ended 1-0 in favor of PVF Public Security, making the championship race unpredictable.

This result forced the teams to await the final match between Hanoi FC and Viettel Army to determine the champion. Given the standings, the winner of this match would take the top spot. Thus, both teams engaged in an exciting, open contest with constant back-and-forth action. Ultimately, Hanoi FC and Viettel Army drew 2-2 after a tense 90 minutes.

When the final whistle blew, Hoang Anh Gia Lai, PVF Public Security, and Hanoi FC each had 4 points from three matches. The champion was decided by goal difference, with Hoang Anh Gia Lai leading. The Mountainous City team finished with a +2 goal difference, ahead of PVF Public Security at 0 and Hanoi FC at -2. Viettel Army drew all three games, earning 3 points and finishing last, but received the Fair Play award for their spirit and professionalism.

Hoang Anh Gia Lai’s victory concluded a tournament successful both in terms of sporting quality and organization, leaving a positive mark on domestic football. The 2025 Thai Nguyen Four-Team Football Tournament not only delivered captivating matches but also reinforced Thai Nguyen’s role in hosting large-scale sports events, aiming for higher standards in the future.