Hanoi Police won a "heart-stopping" victory over Dynamic Herb Cebu

Hanoi police (in red shirts) secured a narrow victory at home. (Photo: Duc Cuong)

Entering the match as the favorites, Hanoi Police completely controlled the game in the first half. However, the team's playing style lacked the necessary breakthroughs and sharpness.

Despite controlling possession for 80% of the time and completing over 260 passes, Hanoi Police's attacking combinations were met with a multi-layered defensive system from the team from the Philippines.

The few clear-cut chances in this half were unfortunately missed, including Rogerio Alves' unsuccessful one-on-one situation and Alan's weak header.

Cebu FC, with their disciplined style of play and tight defense, created a surprise by making it very difficult for Hanoi Police to get close to the goal.

They even gave the audience a scare with a few dangerous counter-attacks. Roberto Corsame's long-range shot and Rico Andes' close-range header could have been goals if not for the excellent performance of the Hanoi Police defense and a bit of luck.

In the second half, coach Mano Polking decided to strengthen the attack by bringing on Dinh Bac and Thanh Long. Hanoi Police continued to press their opponents, creating a series of dangerous opportunities, but were still unable to break through the opposing defense.

Notably, Alan, Rogerio, and Leo Artur had consecutive shots blocked. In another instance, Dinh Bac had a rebound shot, but the ball went just wide of the post.

Despite numerous attacks, Hanoi Police were ineffective and nearly paid the price in the 65th minute when Corsame broke through to face goalkeeper Filip Nguyen, but his shot went wide. Recognizing the deadlock with the foreign players, coach Polking substituted Vitao, Rogerio, and Alan, replacing them with three domestic players: Phan Van Duc, Duc Nam, and Minh Phuc, in an attempt to revitalize the attack.

It wasn't until the 89th minute that Hanoi Police's relentless efforts were rewarded. After two consecutive shots were saved by goalkeeper Rami Jeridi, the ball rebounded perfectly to Cao Pendant Quang Vinh. The defender wearing number 15 made a powerful dive to score the only goal of the match, securing a breathtaking victory for the home team.

This result puts Hanoi Police temporarily at the top of Group A after two matches. Coach Mano Polking's team will continue their journey in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 with a challenging away match against Buriram United in the next round.

PHAN THACH

Source: https://nhandan.vn/cong-an-ha-noi-gianh-chien-thang-thot-tim-truc-dynamic-herb-cebu-post910302.html