CLB Nam Định powerless in the Asian arena

06/11/2025 07:53:00 esportapi

Nam Định did everything possible to secure at least a draw at Thiên Trường Stadium against Gamba Osaka but failed to achieve this. Lack of luck, the forwards’ misfortune, and their inability to control the match led Nam Định to suffer another defeat in the continental competition.

The home advantage at Thiên Trường was not enough for Nam Định as Gamba Osaka was clearly stronger and more energetic. Meanwhile, Nam Định had just played two consecutive matches against V-League teams within ten days. In the first leg, even with a lineup mostly made up of foreign players, Nam Định lost 1-3.

In the second leg, coach Nguyễn Trung Kiên started with nine foreign players in the starting lineup. Nam Định showed clear intent to attack aggressively from the start. However, their plans were shattered early by a goal conceded in the 8th minute. Despite having six players inside the penalty area, Nam Định failed to defend well, allowing Rin Mito to head the ball into the net past goalkeeper Caique.

In reality, Nam Định created several scoring opportunities in the first half but missed them all. Hansen, Eid Mahmoud, and Percy Tau each failed to convert chances into goals. The second half witnessed tireless efforts from the Nam Định squad, but they still couldn’t find an equalizer. All attempts ended as missed opportunities or regrets as the ball never crossed the line defended by goalkeeper Higashiguchi.

Despite heavy investment and strong determination, Nam Định began to struggle on the bigger stage. They face problems in both attack and defense. Although having many foreign players, their quality remains questionable. Players like Brenner, Romulo, and Kyle Hudlin have yet to inspire confidence that justifies the money spent by the reigning V-League champions.

Nam Định (in white) fought hard but still couldn’t secure a win against Gamba Osaka. Photo: Hoàng Linh

Furthermore, players Percy Tau and Lucas Alves appeared uninspired, lacking passion and failing to connect well with their domestic teammates. When key players don’t synchronize, the team’s system lacks smooth operation. It is evident that Nam Định is losing the identity that brought them to the top of Vietnamese football in the past two seasons. Their pressing and sharp counterattacks are neither frequent nor effective anymore.

The upcoming period poses a significant test for Nam Định. They must push themselves in the V-League to regain their champion status. At the same time, they need to manage their resources for regional competitions such as the AFC Champions League Two and the 2025/2026 Southeast Asian Club Championship. The intense match schedule could exhaust the team’s fitness, worsening issues with cohesion and tactical clarity. If they fail to overcome these obstacles, a deeper crisis may emerge.

Although coach Nguyễn Trung Kiên continues to trust his players from the bench, Nam Định urgently requires a swift transformation to return to form. They must focus on restructuring their playing style, restoring intensity and cohesion, and especially optimizing their foreign player resources. This is an opportunity for Nam Định to demonstrate the strength of a club that has won the V-League twice consecutively. Only by rebuilding their fitness base, tactical framework, and coaching stability can Nam Định escape their current downward trajectory and continue their challenging journey across multiple tournaments.

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