Having defeated strong rivals in the semifinals through emphatic wins, Ninh Binh and CATP.HCM will step into the final battle. The showdown between Ninh Binh's visually appealing offensive play and the maturity of CATP.HCM will settle the owner of the trophy Cup quoc gia this season.
Ninh Binh enjoys home-field advantage and the stability of a team that is on its way to becoming a true powerhouse, while CATP.HCM brings an astonishing explosive quality driven by a courageous spirit.
This is also a matchup between two sides with relatively contrasting styles: the flair and control of the team from the ancient capital of Hoa Lu versus the pragmatism and discipline of the southern representative. Both crave the title, and more importantly, the statement of the position they aim to establish in the future.
In recent matches, Ninh Binh has been displaying a vibrant and effective attacking game. The home side enters the final with a confident demeanor, riding a wave of high form. Most notably, they showcased their strength by defeating The Cong Viettel 4-1 in the semifinals—a result that underscores Ninh Binh's peak performance.
Ninh Binh's gameplay emphasizes proactive ball possession and extremely rapid state transitions. With key players like Nguyen Hoang Duc and Geovane, this team can put pressure on opponents right from the midfield. Playing on familiar turf provides a significant advantage for Ninh Binh to execute the small and medium-sized combination plays that have become their trademark.
In contrast to their opponent's explosiveness, CATP.HCM, under the guidance of coach Phung Thanh Phuong, presents a tenacious and calculating image. Scoring four goals in the first half alone against Nam Dinh in the semifinals is clear proof of their ability to punish opponents' mistakes.

Ninh Binh (right) is rated higher than CATP.HCM thanks to home advantage. Photo: Hoang Linh
A deep defensive system and lightning-fast transition play are CATP.HCM's most potent weapons. With the excellent goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang between the posts, the visitors have a solid foundation to withstand pressure before launching sharp counterattacks aimed at the gaps behind the opponent's defense.
Good news for both coaches Chu Dinh Nghiem and Phung Thanh Phuong: they each have their strongest squad available for the most important match of the season. There are no serious injuries or unfortunate suspensions, promising a top-tier tactical showdown.
The focal point of the match will undoubtedly be the midfield area, where Nguyen Hoang Duc will face off against the sweeping duo of Nguyen Duc Phu and Nguyen Thai Quoc Cuong. Hoang Duc's ability to escape pressing and create plays is the key for Ninh Binh to unlock the path to Patrik Le Giang's goal.
Additionally, the duel between the center-back pair Truong Tien Anh - Le Hai Duc and the foreign duo Raphael - Williams on CATP.HCM's side will determine the outcome. If Ninh Binh's defense loses concentration against the speed of the opposing forwards, they could pay a heavy price, just as Nam Dinh experienced.
Overall, with home advantage and balanced squad quality, Ninh Binh holds the upper hand to win the National Cup for the first time. However, the maturity of CATP.HCM in an underdog role always presents an unpredictable factor that could make the hosts regret.
It has been a long time since we saw such a meaningful National Cup final, as both Ninh Binh and CATP.HCM are hungry for silverware. That's why fans continue to look forward to a feast of attacking football.