Viettel suffers heavy personnel loss as key midfield duo is suspended.

Viettel will be without Wesley Nata and Nguyễn Văn Tú due to suspension as they enter the crucial derby against Hanoi FC in round 14 of V-League 2025/2026.

The Capital derby between Viettel and Hanoi FC in round 14 of V-League 2025/2026 is drawing significant attention from fans. However, before the kick-off, the military-backed team received unfortunate news as they cannot field their two key midfielders, Wesley Nata and Nguyễn Văn Tú.

According to an announcement from the tournament organizer (VPF), both Wesley Nata and Nguyễn Văn Tú are suspended for having accumulated the maximum allowable number of disciplinary cards. This means Coach Popov is forced to reconsider his personnel strategy for hosting Hanoi FC at 7:15 PM on March 1st at Hang Day Stadium.

The absence of Wesley Nata is considered the biggest loss for Viettel's midfield. The Brazilian foreign player has started all 13 matches since the season began, accumulating 1146 minutes of play and is nearly irreplaceable in the tactical system. Nata's ball recovery, dueling, and tempo control abilities help the military team maintain balance in tense matches.

Meanwhile, Nguyễn Văn Tú also leaves a significant gap. This midfielder has made 11 appearances, with 9 starts, playing a crucial role in ball circulation and providing defensive support from deep. Losing both central midfielders simultaneously presents Coach Popov with a complex tactical challenge against an experienced opponent like Hanoi FC.

Currently, Viettel ranks 3rd on the table with 25 points after 13 rounds. Hanoi FC is placed right behind and trails by only 4 points. This narrow gap makes this derby particularly significant in the championship race. A victory would solidify Viettel's position, whereas a loss could see their lead over their rivals shrink to the minimum.

On the other side, Hanoi FC is also not at full strength as midfielder Đỗ Hùng Dũng continues his suspension following a red card in round 12. Both teams lacking personnel in midfield promises a tense tactical battle from the coaching benches, where strategic adjustments could decide the outcome of the Capital derby.