Dong Thap Claim Impressive Victory at Xuan Thien Phu Tho

Vietnam National First Class League – May 22, 2026 – Xuan Thien Phu Tho suffered a 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Dong Thap in a match that saw the visitors dominate possession and create the better chances. The result moves Dong Thap further away from the relegation zone, while the home side remains in mid-table.

Match Overview

Playing at the Phu Tho Stadium in front of a modest crowd, the home team struggled to cope with Dong Thap's high pressing from the first whistle. The visitors took the lead in the 23rd minute when Nguyen Van Anh slotted home after a well-worked corner routine. Dong Thap doubled their advantage just before half-time through a clinical counter-attack finished by Le Quoc Hung.

Key Moments

• 23' – Goal for Dong Thap: Nguyen Van Anh heads in from close range.
• 44' – Goal for Dong Thap: Le Quoc Hung fires past the keeper after a swift break.
• 67' – Xuan Thien Phu Tho hit the post through a long-range effort from Tran Minh Duy.
• 85' – Dong Thap goalkeeper Nguyen Van Toan makes a brilliant save to preserve the clean sheet.

Tactical Story

Dong Thap employed a compact 4-4-2 formation, relying on quick transitions to exploit the home side's high defensive line. Xuan Thien Phu Tho, playing a 4-3-3, struggled to break down the deep-lying visitors and lacked creativity in the final third. The midfield battle was won by Dong Thap's duo of Pham Van Hau and Tran Dinh Trong, who effectively cut supply lines to the home strikers.

Standout Players

For the visitors, midfielder Pham Van Hau was instrumental, completing 89% of his passes and winning four tackles. Goalkeeper Nguyen Van Toan also deserves credit for a composed performance between the posts. For Xuan Thien Phu Tho, left-back Hoang Anh Tuan tried to push forward but lacked support.

Season Impact

The win lifts Dong Thap to 10th on 28 points, six clear of the relegation playoff spot. Xuan Thien Phu Tho remain 8th with 32 points, now four points adrift of the promotion play-off places. With seven matches left in the season, both sides still have much to play for.