The final hurdle

After a period of playing abroad and accepting a place in the First Division upon returning home, Cong Phuong now has a great opportunity to make a comeback to Vietnam's biggest football league - the V-League - if he and Binh Phuoc defeat Da Nang in the play-off match.

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Cong Phuong is just one step away from returning to the V-League after many years of absence.

For Cong Phuong, this match was not only a turning point in his career (contributing significantly to Binh Phuoc's promotion), but also marked his return after a period away from the V-League to play football in Japan.

SHB Da Nang is the final major challenge that Cong Phuong and his teammates must overcome. If successful, it will be an emotional comeback for the player who was once considered the brightest icon of Vietnamese football.

Conversely, failure also means that Cong Phuong's opportunity to play in the V-League will have to wait at least another season, especially considering he will turn 30 in January of this year.

Why do we hope for Cong Phuong's return?

However, the reason fans are eagerly awaiting Cong Phuong's return to the V-League is not solely due to his professional skills. Having passed the age of 30, although he still possesses exceptional abilities, expecting the Vietnamese national team striker to shine in a fiercely competitive environment like this league is somewhat difficult.

Therefore, what truly excites Vietnamese football fans is the strong media buzz that Cong Phuong possesses, rather than his professional skills.

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Cong Phuong's return could make a difference to the V-League.

For many years, the former HAGL striker has been one of the rare players in Vietnam to create a media sensation, even after playing in the First Division. Therefore, Cong Phuong's return could very well help the V-League gain more attention and draw fans back to the stands, which have become increasingly empty.

The V-League clearly needs a player like Cong Phuong to revive its image, improve viewership, and create truly special highlights.

Although the upcoming play-off match won't be easy, fans are still hoping for Công Phượng's club to win, not only so he can play top-level football in the final years of his career but also to help revive the league from the stands.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/cho-cong-phuong-tro-lai-san-dau-dinh-cao-v-league-2025-26-2414671.html