The V-League side entered the game at Thien Truong Stadium looking to maintain their unbeaten run in Group B. They did so convincingly, dominating the visitors from Singapore with tactical discipline, sharp pressing, and efficient finishing.

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Xuan Son celebrates his second goal against Lion City Sailors. Photo: TXND

The match began cautiously, with both teams sizing each other up. Lion City played with a deep defensive setup while Nam Dinh focused on slow, deliberate build-up play. The pressure began to build midway through the first half.

In the 25th minute, Tuan Anh was brought down in the box, but VAR denied Nam Dinh a penalty. Just 10 minutes later, the breakthrough came. Caio Cesar, under tight pressure from four defenders, curled a superb shot into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper no chance and putting the hosts 1-0 up.

The second half saw Lion City push forward in search of an equalizer, but their commitment upfield exposed gaps at the back. Nam Dinh capitalized ruthlessly.

In the 60th minute, Tuan Anh pressed high and forced an error from the opposing defense. Xuan Son pounced, shifted past his marker, and calmly slotted the ball into the far corner to make it 2-0.

Nam Dinh continued to manage the game with confidence. As fatigue set in, they rotated key players to conserve energy for the upcoming V-League fixtures.

In added time, substitute Lam Ti Phong served up a perfect assist after a run by Hoang Anh. Xuan Son finished the move clinically, completing his brace and bringing his tournament tally to five goals - cementing his status as a standout performer in the Shopee Cup.

With this win, Nam Dinh remains at the top of Group B with a perfect 12 points from four matches. They’ve scored freely and conceded just once across their fixtures, emerging as a strong contender for the regional title.

Scorers: Caio Cesar (35’), Xuan Son (60’, 90’+3)

Starting lineups:

Nam Dinh: Nguyen Manh, Van Vi (Hoang Anh 68’), Lucas Alves, Van Kien, Dijks, Walber Mota, Percy Tau, Romulo, Tuan Anh (Lam Ti Phong 68’), Caio Cesar (Hong Duy), Xuan Son

Lion City: Mahbud, Van Huizen, Wright, Datkovic, Costa, Syahin, Ndenge, Lestienne, Lenart Thy, Anderson Lopes, Anuar

Thien Binh