Cong An Ha Noi beat Adelaide United, reach AFC Champions League Elite
VOV.VN - Cong An Ha Noi FC have made history for Vietnamese football after defeating Australia’s Adelaide United 2-0 away from home on August 11 to secure a place in the League Stage of the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27.
Playing away to Adelaide United, Cong An Ha Noi adopted a cautious approach, relying on a disciplined defensive structure and quick counter-attacks.
Head coach Alexandre Polking’s side were willing to concede possession at times, while keeping their formation compact and waiting for opportunities to exploit transitions.
The approach paid off in the 41st minute. After a quick counter-attack, Perea dropped deep and played a pass into the path of David Henen, who raced through on goal before calmly firing a low shot past the Adelaide United goalkeeper to put Cong An Ha Noi 1-0 ahead.
The goal gave the Vietnamese side a valuable lead heading into half-time.
Adelaide United pushed forward after the break in search of an equaliser, but Cong An Ha Noi remained dangerous on the counter.
In the 64th minute, Henen received the ball on the right flank before delivering a low cross into the penalty area. Brayan Perea arrived at the right moment and finished clinically to double Cong An Ha Noi’s advantage.
The Vietnamese side then maintained their defensive discipline and successfully protected their 2-0 lead until the final whistle.
With the victory, Cong An Ha Noi FC became the first Vietnamese representative to come through the play-off stage and reach the League Stage of the AFC Champions League Elite.
The achievement represents a significant step forward for Vietnamese club football in Asia. Instead of dropping into the AFC Champions League Two, Cong An Ha Noi will compete in Asia’s top-tier club competition in the 2026/27 season.
Beyond the sporting significance, reaching the League Stage also brings substantial financial benefits to Cong An Ha Noi.
The AFC’s competition financial structure provides a US$50,000 travel subsidy for the Preliminary Stage, while qualification for the League Stage carries an US$800,000 participation payment. This means the club's campaign-related financial benefits reach approximately US$850,000, before any additional performance bonuses from matches in the League Stage.
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