Following the draw for the Round of 16 in the AFC Champions League Two 2025/2026, numerous Vietnamese supporters assess that Công an Hà Nội FC holds a significant opportunity to progress, and if they play to their potential, they could go deep into the semifinals or final.
On the afternoon of December 30th, the Asian Football Confederation conducted the draw for the first knockout round of the AFC Champions League Two. According to the results, the sole representative of Vietnamese football, Công an Hà Nội FC, will face Tampines Rovers FC in a two-legged home-and-away format. The first leg will be held at Hàng Đẫy Stadium, while the second leg will take place in Singapore in February 2026.
Considering the overall level, this is seen as a fairly favorable draw for CAHN. Tampines Rovers made a strong impression in the group stage by topping Group H with 16 points, scoring 14 goals and conceding only 5, notably earning 4 points against Pohang Steelers.
However, compared to top East Asian teams like Gamba Osaka or Bangkok United, the Singaporean side is still rated lower in squad depth, match intensity, and experience in knockout rounds.
Therefore, the Vietnamese fan community remains quite optimistic. Many opinions suggest that if CAHN maintains focus and plays to their ability, advancing further is entirely feasible.
One supporter commented: “If they play at their best and don’t lose concentration during the game, reaching deep stages, even the semifinals, is realistic.”This view reflects confidence in the disciplined and physically strong playing style of the police team.
Other comments regard Tampines as a “manageable” opponent given that CAHN avoided strong teams from Japan and Korea. Some analyses stated: “Avoiding Gamba Osaka or Pohang makes this bracket easier; the key is for CAHN to make good use of their home advantage in the first leg.”This shows that fans consider not only the opponent's reputation but also specific factors like match schedule and venue.
Many supporters are looking beyond the Round of 16. One hopeful comment said: “If they get past Tampines and keep a steady form, CAHN could definitely dream of the East Asia final.”. Although this is a challenging goal, it reflects a shift in how Vietnamese fans view V.League representatives in continental competitions.
Under coach Alexandre Polking, CAHN is highly rated for their organization and game control. Playing Tampines consecutively in both the Shopee Cup and AFC Champions League Two during this period also gives the coaching staff additional data to prepare suitable tactics.
Overall, the fans' optimism is not emotional but based on the balance of squads, the draw, and current form. If CAHN performs to their potential, they not only have a chance to pass the Round of 16 but also a solid foundation to aim for a longer journey in the AFC Champions League Two 2025/2026 season.
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