Hot Vietnamese football news today 18/7: Quang Hải proud to wear the captain's armband; Viktor Lê leaves Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh

Hot Vietnamese football news today 18/7: Quang Hải proud to wear the captain's armband; Viktor Lê leaves Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh.

Quang Hải proud to wear the captain's armband

Midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải expressed his pride and emotion upon being given the captain's armband of the Vietnam national team for the first time. The 1997-born star stated that this is a special milestone in his career and a source of motivation for him to strive even harder to repay the trust of the coaching staff, teammates, and fans.

Quang Hải affirmed that the captain's armband is not only an honor but also comes with great responsibility. According to the 29-year-old midfielder, he will try to perform well both professionally and mentally, becoming a bridge to help his teammates unite and work towards the common goals of the Vietnam national team in the coming time.

The player under Hanoi Police FC also emphasized that the team currently possesses many experienced individuals with leadership qualities. Therefore, being entrusted by the coaching staff with the captaincy is a great pride, but the most important thing remains the unity and collective spirit of the whole team.

Eight teams confirmed for U21 National Quarterfinals 2026

The group stage of the National U21 Football Championship Finals - FPT Play Cup 2026 has concluded, thereby determining the eight outstanding teams that have secured spots in the quarterfinals.

The teams competing in the round of the eight strongest include Hanoi, PVF-CAND, The Cong Viettel, Song Lam Nghe An, SHB Da Nang, Dong Thap, Tay Ninh, and Hoang Anh Gia Lai.

Hanoi and PVF-CAND advanced from Group A, The Cong Viettel and Song Lam Nghe An secured tickets from Group B, while SHB Da Nang and Dong Thap progressed as the top two from Group C. The remaining two spots went to Tay Ninh and Hoang Anh Gia Lai, the best third-placed teams.

According to the bracket results, Hanoi will face Dong Thap, PVF-CAND will meet Hoang Anh Gia Lai, The Cong Viettel will take on Tay Ninh, and Song Lam Nghe An will compete against SHB Da Nang.

The quarterfinals will be played in a knockout format. The four winning teams will advance to the semifinals, continuing the race towards the National U21 Championship - FPT Play Cup 2026 title.

Thai Nguyen Stadium ready to host Vietnam - Myanmar friendly match

Thai Nguyen Stadium has completed all preparations and is ready for the international friendly match between the Vietnam national team and the Myanmar national team, scheduled to take place at 7:00 PM on July 18. This is the first time Thai Nguyen Stadium has hosted a FIFA Days match for the national team, marking an important milestone for local football.

Before kickoff, the organizing committee conducted a full trial run of the match organization process, from pre-match ceremonies to technical aspects, to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The pitch's grass has been meticulously cared for over nearly a month, achieving good quality, while the marking system, stands, function rooms, security, and medical facilities have also been inspected and perfected according to standards.

Coach Kim Sang Sik’s squad had a training session on the pitch to finalize their preparations before hosting Myanmar.

This match is considered an important dress rehearsal for the Vietnam national team before they embark on the journey to defend their ASEAN Cup 2026 title.

The thorough preparation by the local authorities and the lively atmosphere from the fans promise to create a football festival in Thai Nguyen.

Viktor Lê leaves Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh

Overseas Vietnamese midfielder Viktor Lê has bid farewell to Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh to join PVF-CAND ahead of the 2026/27 season.

This news came as a surprise as the contract between the 2003-born player and the Red Mountain club was still valid until 2027.

The two sides reached an agreement to terminate the contract early, paving the way for Viktor Lê to move to his new destination.

Viktor Lê’s choice of PVF-CAND surprised many because this club has just been relegated to the National First Division.

This is considered a suitable environment for the overseas Vietnamese midfielder to gain more regular playing time, continue his professional development, and aim for long-term career goals.

Joining Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh in 2023, Viktor Lê gradually asserted his ability thanks to his technical playing style, ball control, and good tactical thinking.

He quickly became an important figure in midfield and was once extended until 2027.

If the final procedures are completed, Viktor Lê will wear the PVF-CAND jersey in the 2026/27 season.