V-League 2026-2027 kicks off: Suspensions cast a shadow over opening day

Round 1 of V-League 2026-2027 hasn't officially started, but the suspension list has already created big question marks for two ambitious teams. Doãn Ngọc Tân (Thể Công - Viettel) and Nguyễn Công Nhật (Hà Nội) will be absent on opening day due to direct red cards received last season. This is a notable situation, as both are key players for their new clubs, and these bans could directly affect the outcome of the first matches. Hà Nội FC enters the new season under unprecedented pressure. For the first time in 17 years, the capital club failed to finish in the top 3 of the V-League. Nguyễn Công Nhật received a direct red card in the final round, contributing to the team earning only 1 point and losing their position in the leading group. His 2-match suspension means Hà Nội will be without an important figure for the away trip to Công An TP.HCM, a team that beat them 2-1 at Hàng Đẫy in last season's opener. Meanwhile, Công An TP.HCM is also under significant pressure. The 0-5 loss to Công An Hà Nội in the 2026 National Super Cup was a major shock, raising questions about the team's stability under coach Diles Athanasios Arthur. The coach is reportedly very determined to win at home to appease public opinion and build momentum for a successful season. However, such a heavy defeat could leave psychological scars, and facing a Hà Nội side desperate for revenge will be a tough test. In another development, the match between Thể Công - Viettel and Trường Tươi Đồng Nai is also noteworthy. Thể Công - Viettel are the defending runners-up, while Đồng Nai are newly promoted. The absence of Doãn Ngọc Tân, who just moved from Thanh Hóa, will deprive the away team of an important tactical piece. Nevertheless, with their squad depth and experience, Thể Công - Viettel are still rated higher. However, football always holds surprises, and a newly promoted team with a relaxed mindset can create an uncomfortable game. Both Hà Nội and Công An TP.HCM have made significant squad changes this season. This promises an exciting clash, but also carries risks regarding the chemistry between new players. For Hà Nội, missing Nguyễn Công Nhật for the first two matches (against Công An TP.HCM and SLNA) is a real challenge. Can the capital team have enough depth to overcome this difficult period? The answer will come right after the first round. V-League 2026-2027 promises to be very fierce. Hà Nội FC's decline has opened opportunities for other teams. Thể Công - Viettel, with their runner-up status, will certainly be a strong candidate for the championship. Công An TP.HCM also has big ambitions, but they need to quickly fix the issues exposed in the Super Cup. Meanwhile, newcomers like Trường Tươi Đồng Nai will be interesting wildcards, capable of causing unexpected upsets. The suspensions of Doãn Ngọc Tân and Nguyễn Công Nhật are just the beginning of a long season. The key is for teams to adapt and overcome immediate difficulties. For fans, this will be a season full of emotion and drama. Can Hà Nội return strongly? Can Công An TP.HCM turn disappointment into motivation? And can Thể Công - Viettel realize their championship ambitions? All will be answered on the pitch.