National First Division 2025 - 2026 kicks off

The 2025-2026 Sao Vang Beer National First Division (V.League 2) kicks off on September 19. Khatoco Khanh Hoa start the season with a home match against Long An at 19-8 Nha Trang Stadium. 

The official opening ceremony of the 2025-2026 V.League 2 is expected to take place at PVF Stadium (Hung Yen Province) on September 21 before the match between PVF - People's Public Security and Quang Ninh. On September 19 and 20, besides the match between Khatoco Khanh Hoa and Long An, there are matches between Quy Nhon United and Van Hien University (Quy Nhon Stadium), Dong Thap and Xuan Thien Phu Tho (Dong Thap Stadium), Truong Tuoi Dong Nai and Ho Chi Minh City (Binh Phuoc Stadium). 

Khatoco Khanh Hoa players (right) in a recent friendly match at home field

This is the first edition of V.League 2 after the merger of provinces and cities over the country. Many teams changed their names and their managing units in accordance with the merger. For example, Truong Tuoi Binh Phuoc changed to Truong Tuoi Dong Nai; Ba Ria-Vung Tau changed to Ho Chi Minh City Club, Junior Ho Chi Minh City changed to Youth Ho Chi Minh City; Gia Dinh changed to Xuan Thien Phu Tho; Quy Nhon Binh Dinh changed to Quy Nhon United.

After Hoa Binh withdrew from the league, V.League 2 has 12 teams left, 2 teams fewer than the original plan (14 teams). Therefore, the organizing committee conducted a draw, rearranged the competition schedule and changed the number of promoted and relegated teams from 2 teams (previously) to 1 direct relegated team and 1.5 promoted teams.

In addition, this is also the first season of V.League 2 allowing the teams to register 1 foreign player to improve the quality of the tournament. Some teams with strong financial resources such as Truong Tuoi Dong Nai and Quy Nhon United had recruited foreign and introduced their foreign players in the recent National Cup qualifying round.

Khatoco Khanh Hoa have overcome difficulties and are ready for the new season. Their roster this season is highly appreciated compared to last season with the return of some experienced players namely Ho, Duy Anh, Minh Loi, Hoai An, Van Tung.

On September 8, Khatoco Khanh Hoa held a ceremony with the participation of Nguyen Long Bien - Member of Khanh Hoa Provincial Standing Party Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee. In order to prepare for the new season of V.League 2, Khatoco Khanh Hoa played friendly matches with Youth Ho Chi Minh City and Long An. 

AN NHIEN
Translated by H.N