Despite trying hard, Nam Dinh Blue Steel still lost to the Japanese team at the C2 Asian Cup.

On the evening of October 22, Nam Dinh Blue Steel Club lost 1-3 on Gamba Osaka's field in the third match of Group F of the 2025-2026 Asian Cup C2, thereby keeping second place in the group with 6 points after three matches.

Gamba Osaka completely dominated Nam Dinh (in white jerseys). Photo: Quang Duong

Nam Dinh Green Steel FC traveled to face Gamba Osaka in the third matchday of Group F of the 2025-2026 AFC Cup. Despite their best efforts, the V.League representatives were unable to spring a surprise against their strong Japanese opponents and suffered a defeat.

Immediately after the opening whistle, Gamba Osaka quickly pushed forward and created significant pressure. In the 17th minute, the home team capitalized on their advantage with the opening goal from Rin Mito, following a well-placed cross from the right wing. Nam Dinh then tried to tighten their formation but were unable to create any breakthroughs. They were almost completely outplayed in the first half and were trailing 0-1 when the referee blew the final whistle.

The V.League representatives played awkwardly and easily conceded 3 goals. (Photo: Quang Duong)

In the second half, Gamba Osaka continued to control the game. In the 52nd minute, Issam Jebali easily tapped the ball into the net from close range, doubling the lead for the home team. Meanwhile, the Nam Dinh defense played awkwardly and were unable to tightly mark the opposing forwards. In the 89th minute, Gamba Osaka scored their third goal after the ball deflected off a visiting defender and went straight into the net.

Nam Định were fortunate to score a consolation goal in the final minute of the match. (Photo: Quang Dương)

Nam Định only managed a consolation goal in the 93rd minute thanks to a skillful move and accurate angled shot from striker Kyle Hudlin. However, this goal was not enough to prevent coach Vu Hong Viet's team from suffering a defeat.

At the end of the match, Gamba Osaka won 3-1, thus consolidating their top position in Group F with a perfect 9 points after 3 matches. Nam Dinh remains in second place with 6 points, one win behind their opponent, and will need to improve significantly if they want to keep their hopes of advancing in this season's AFC Cup alive.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/thi-dau-no-luc-thep-xanh-nam-dinh-van-de-thua-doi-bong-nhat-ban-tai-cup-c2-chau-a-720580.html