In a highly contested match on the evening of July 6, Viettel Club secured a 2-1 victory over defending champion Hanoi in the quarterfinals of the 2023 National Cup. The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when foreign player Jefferson Elias scored a controversial goal, leading to Hanoi's elimination.
The goal was met with controversy as Hanoi players believed the ball had touched a Viettel player's hand moments before Jefferson's shot. However, the referee allowed play to continue. Jefferson seized the opportunity and unleashed a powerful long-range shot from outside the penalty area, beating goalkeeper Bui Tan Truong. The ball hit the inside of the goalpost, causing confusion among Hanoi players who initially thought it had not entered the net. Upon review, the goal was confirmed by referee Hoang Thanh Binh.
Viettel had taken the lead in the 13th minute with a splendid volley by Nguyen Hoang Duc. However, Hanoi quickly equalized in the 30th minute when Pham Tuan Hai lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Pham Van Phong's head.
Despite Hanoi's efforts and protests to the referee by coach Bozidar Bandovic, they were unable to turn the tide. Substitutions made by Bandovic did not yield the desired results, and Hanoi FC had to accept a 2-1 defeat, ending their quest for a third consecutive National Cup title.
In the aftermath of the match, some Hanoi players expressed frustration and dissatisfaction with the referee's decisions. Tuan Hai and Le Van Xuan were visibly upset, prompting intervention from Do Duy Manh to prevent any potential disciplinary actions.
Viettel Club will now face the winner of the match between Hanoi Police and Nam Dinh in the upcoming semifinals on July 7. Meanwhile, Hanoi FC will shift their focus to the V.League as they strive to chase and surpass Hanoi Police in the second phase of the season.
