Đồng Nai struggles as Công Phượng’s return date remains uncertain

Trường Tươi Đồng Nai is encountering many difficulties in the First Division competition because their leading forward Nguyễn Công Phượng still has no confirmed return date after his injury.

On the afternoon of October 26, Trường Tươi Đồng Nai hosted Bắc Ninh in the 5th round of the 2025/26 First Division. Despite playing at home and desperately needing three points to maintain their top position, the absence of Nguyễn Công Phượng caused the Southeast team numerous problems, resulting in a disappointing 0-0 draw.

This marked the sixth consecutive match Công Phượng missed due to injury (five league matches and one National Cup game). Born in 1995, the striker is not only the main attacking threat but also the soul of Đồng Nai’s offensive play.

Since joining the team, Đồng Nai’s attack has consistently been effective thanks to his ability to create breakthroughs, agile movement, and drawing the opposition’s defense. Therefore, Công Phượng’s absence made Đồng Nai’s play more monotonous, lacking a player who can make decisive differences at critical moments.

Without their main striker, Đồng Nai had to rely on Minh Vương and the foreign player Alex Sandro. However, on a day when the weather was unfavorable, both performed below expectations. Minh Vương was tightly marked and unable to deliver threatening passes, while Sandro disappointed by missing the best chance in the 70th minute, shooting wide despite an almost open goal.

Coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng made continuous personnel changes in the second half, but all efforts failed to break the deadlock. On the other side, Bắc Ninh focused on defense and waited for counterattack opportunities.

The 0-0 draw caused Đồng Nai to lose the top position to Khánh Hòa, who won their match in the same round. After five rounds, Đồng Nai temporarily stands third with 11 points, one point behind Khánh Hòa and behind TPHCM on goal difference. Without an early return from Công Phượng, Đồng Nai’s championship ambitions will certainly face many obstacles in the tough period ahead.