V.League 1 round 13: Khanh Hoa FC earn away point

Coutinho marked his Khanh Hoa FC debut with a brace in the match with Merry Land Quy Nhon-Binh Dinh in round 13 of V.League 1 taking place at Quy Nhon Stadium last weekend. Coutinho’s brace helped Khanh Hoa FC earn 1 away point.

Coutinho is on loan at Khanh Hoa FC from Thep Xanh Nam Dinh in the mid-season transfer window. Coutinho was brought to 19-8 Nha Trang Stadium to replace Mamadou, who had displayed very bad performances, and improve the scoring ability of Khanh Hoa FC. The debutant satisfied Khanh Hoa FC’s coach board and supporters with an excellent performance and 2 goals scored against the hosts Merry Land Quy Nhon-Binh Dinh.

Khanh Hoa FC playing Merry Land Quy Nhon-Binh Dinh (Source: VPF)

Khanh Hoa FC were awarded a direct free kick in the first half after a defender of Merry Land Quy Nhon-Binh Dinh touched the ball in the penalty area. Coutinho converted the free kick into goal to make it 1-0 for the visitors. Coutinho scored his second goal in the second half to level the score for Khanh Hoa FC. His goal was contributed by a good assist by midfielder Sesay. 

The 2 goals of Merry Land Quy Nhon-Binh Dinh were made in the first half by foreign player Artur and domestic player Thanh Thinh. Khanh Hoa FC secured a valuable point against these stronger opponents thanks to the impressive debut of Mourinho.

Khanh Hoa FC finished the first leg with 9 points from 2 wins, 3 draws and 8 losses, placing at the bottom of the table. With this result, coach Tran Trong Binh and his players have a lot to do in the return leg in order to avoid relegation. After round 13, V.League 1 takes a break until the end of the month as Vietnam national football team prepare for 2 matches against Indonesia in the second round of 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC qualification. The break gives Khanh Hoa FC a good opportunity to improve their play style and scoring skills. 

A.N 
Translated by H.N