Thanh Hóa Coach: 'We don't need favoritism, just a fair game'

Following the 0-1 loss to Nam Định FC in round 16 of V.League 1 2025/26, Dong A Thanh Hóa's coach Mai Xuân Hợp conveyed disappointment that the team failed to earn points even with their hard work.

Evaluating his players' performance, the Thanh region's tactician believed the whole team played with determination against a strong opponent. However, he also couldn't hide his regret when the team faced adversity late in the match.

“Unfortunately, near the end we were awarded a corner but the referee called it off. I don't know what else to say, only think this is a disadvantage for a team facing many difficulties. But as it's part of the game, we have to accept it,”Coach Mai Xuân Hợp stated.

Besides the professional aspect, Coach Mai Xuân Hợp also mentioned the difficulties Thanh Hóa has been facing recently, especially squad issues as the team has had a limited number of players in many recent rounds.

“I hope for fairness, especially for teams facing economic difficulties like Thanh Hóa. We have encountered countless challenges, but what saddens me most is that fairness seems absent. I don't need preferential treatment, just a fair game,” he said regarding the relegation battle.

“In the last 5-6 rounds, we only had 15-16 players, but the team remained determined to fight until the end. That is what makes me proud.”

Additionally, Coach Mai Xuân Hợp also thanked the Vietnam Football Federation for supporting the team in handling procedures related to penalties and player registration.

“I would like to thank the Vietnam Football Federation for assisting Thanh Hóa in resolving the team's penalty. Almost all documents have been received by VFF and processed as quickly as possible for Dong A Thanh Hóa.”

According to him, Thanh Hóa has received information that VFF has submitted documents to FIFA for intervention, and it is expected that within the next 1-2 days, the Thanh region team may be allowed to register additional players.