HCM City win record third national title

VietNamNet Bridge – Coach Doan Thi Kim Chi and her HCM City team made it a title triple yesterday, beating Phong Phu Ha Nam in a penalty shootout to win the National Women’s Football Championship trophy.

One, two, three: HCM City players and coach Doan Kim Chi celebrate their third national title after a penalty shootout in Ha Nam yesterday. — VNS Photo

The victory in Ha Nam Province helped the team set a record that no club has matched in the nation’s football history, including all men’s teams.

The final win was also the 14th consecutive match in the national tournament that they have not lost, with custodian Dang Thi Kieu Trinh not letting any opponent go past her in nine games (before the final), setting another record.

Phong Phu Ha Nam, playing at home, had thousands of supporters who expected to see their team win the national title for the first time.

Their strong pressure brought results 20 minutes into the match as Vu Thi Thuy opened the score for the hosts.

Thuy outran HCM City midfielder and national team member Chuong Thi Kieu from the centre to near the box, and shot to the far corner of the net past goalie Trinh, a former national player, who made a valiant dive in vain.

However, just four minutes later, HCM City restored parity with Bao Chau making a long-distance finish. Midfielder Hong Nhung of Phong Phu Ha Nam tried to head it away but her attempt only delivered the ball to a high corner of the net past helpless goalkeeper Hai Yen.

The result was maintained until the end of the game, forcing participants into a penalty shootout.

While four HCM City strikers were successful, Phong Phu Ha Nam’s Bui Thi Nhu and Do Thi Nguyen missed the target.

“The victory is for our great supporters who have come and encouraged us with great excitement,” said Chi.

Their third national title is HCM City’s seventh trophy, making them the second richest collector following Ha Noi 1, who have 10.

HCM City enjoyed a bonus of VND300 million (US$13,400). Trinh was chosen as the best goalie and Huynh Nhu the best scorer with nine goals.

Phong Phu Ha Nam pocketed VND200 million. Their Nguyen Thi Lieu was chosen best player of the tournament.

Ha Noi 1 and Viet Nam Coal and Minerals shared third place at the national tournament.

TNG’s Thai Nguyen received fair-play award.

The players can enjoy several weeks of rest before the national team will be summoned to prepare for the Asian Women’s Football Championship in Jordan next April.

According to Viet Nam Football Federation General Secretary Le Hoai Anh, the team will train in Germany before the Jordan tournament.

Vietnam are expected to grab a 2019 World Cup ticket from the continent-level tournament. 

Source: VNS