After a relatively quiet summer transfer window, the Vietnamese First Division 2026-2027 officially kicks off this weekend with the first round taking place from September 11 to 13, 2026. With 14 participating teams, this season promises many changes as two promotion spots to the V-League and two relegation spots are at stake.

Context and Expectations

Cong An Nhan Dan (CAND) – a team that played in the V-League last season – is the most notable name. They return to the First Division with a clear determination: to earn promotion immediately. According to organizers, the police-backed team has prepared thoroughly, maintaining most of its squad and adding a few quality recruits from youth teams. CAND's presence in the First Division is like a 'big fish in a small pond,' putting significant pressure on direct competitors.

Besides that, Becamex Ho Chi Minh City – a team linked with the Becamex Binh Duong conglomerate – is also a strong candidate. With stronger financial resources than the average, they can invest in squad and facilities. The Ho Chi Minh City derby between Dai hoc Van Hien and Becamex Ho Chi Minh City in round 1 (Thong Nhat Stadium, 3:30 PM on September 13) will undoubtedly attract special attention from southern fans.

Round 1 Fixtures: Key Matches

The opening round consists of 7 matches, some of which stand out:

• Phu Tho vs Cong An Nhan Dan (Phu Tho Stadium, 3:30 PM on September 12): CAND faces a challenging away debut. Phu Tho may not be a strong team, but their home ground is always tough. This is the first test for CAND's promotion ambitions.

• Dai hoc Van Hien vs Becamex Ho Chi Minh City (Thong Nhat Stadium, 3:30 PM on September 13): The Saigon derby promises drama. Van Hien has a young, hungry squad; Becamex has experience and financial superiority. The class difference may be clearly shown on the pitch.

• Thep Can Tho vs Ba Ria Vung Tau (Can Tho Stadium, 3:30 PM on September 12): Thep Can Tho – a team recently relocated from Quang Ninh – will debut in the Mekong Delta. Their stability remains a big question, and the match against Ba Ria Vung Tau (an experienced First Division side) will reveal their true ability.

Other matches: Dong Nai vs Dong Thap, Binh Phuoc vs Hoa Binh, Hue vs Thanh Hoa, and Dak Lak vs Long An. Though not particularly prominent, these matches will be decisive for the relegation and promotion races later on.

Tactical and Squad Analysis

Although detailed statistics from round 1 are not yet available, based on historical encounters and each team's style, some preliminary observations can be made:

• Cong An Nhan Dan: After relegation, CAND is likely to deploy a 4-3-3 or 3-5-2 formation, prioritizing ball control and wing attacks. Their weakness, however, is mentality when facing defensive teams. If Phu Tho plays counter-attacking football, CAND may struggle to break through.

• Becamex Ho Chi Minh City: This team boasts a squad of experienced players, focusing on controlling the game and exploiting opponent mistakes. The derby against Van Hien is an opportunity to assert class, but also a trap if they become complacent.

• Thep Can Tho: As a new team, they need time to stabilize. Their defense could be a major issue. Ba Ria Vung Tau, with its pragmatic style, can exploit this weakness.

Technology and Media

A notable point this season is the investment in digital platforms. Matches are broadcast live on FPT Play, TV360, HTV The Thao, and MyTV. This shows that the First Division is gradually attracting media market interest, opening opportunities to increase broadcasting revenue for clubs. The HCMC derby is specifically broadcast on HTV1, confirming the appeal of this fixture.

Conclusion

The first round of the 2026-2027 First Division promises exciting surprises. CAND and Becamex Ho Chi Minh City are the brightest candidates for promotion, but other teams are not easy pushovers. Especially the return of Thep Can Tho and the relegation battle will create compelling stories throughout the season. Vietnamese football fans, stay tuned.

This article is based on round 1 fixture information and internal analysis from reliable sources. This is the author's personal opinion and not investment or betting advice.