In a tightly contested match, Hoang Anh Gia Lai (HAGL) and Ho Chi Minh City FC played out a 0-0 draw in the penultimate round of Phase 1 before the grouping stage, resulting in HAGL's eighth draw of the season.
Both teams were unable to find the back of the net during the official 90 minutes and three minutes of injury time at Pleiku Stadium on the afternoon of June 25. The draw meant that each team earned a point in Round 12 and provided an opportunity for their competitors to catch up.
HAGL dominated possession with a superior 67% ball control and created several scoring opportunities, but their efforts were ineffective. Midfielder Tran Minh Vuong came close to scoring with a free kick that hit the crossbar and post in the first half. Striker Paollo also had a contentious fall in the penalty area, but no penalty was awarded to the home team.
With this result, HAGL now has only 14 points from 12 rounds. Their eight draws have gradually diminished their chances of taking the initiative to secure a spot in the top eight teams. Even if they defeat Binh Dinh in Round 13, HAGL will still have to rely on the results of the remaining six matches.
For the 2023 season, the grouping format has changed to an 8-6 ratio, unlike the previous 6-8 format. As a result, the six teams in the bottom group will only have five decisive rounds to avoid relegation, while the top eight teams can be assured of safety for the next season.
On the other hand, Ho Chi Minh City FC faced a different scenario. Coach Vu Tien Thanh's team failed to capitalize on Da Nang's draw against Hai Phong in an earlier match, which would have created some distance. Ho Chi Minh City FC currently holds just a one-point advantage over their opponents (8 points compared to 7), with Binh Duong Club (7 points) yet to play against Viettel.
