Matches in the 20^th round of Viet Nam’s top-tier V-League 2013 took place at stadiums across the country on 18 August.  Most notably, the top 3 teams all took 3 valuable points in their matches, which meant no change at the top.

SHB Da Nang beat Vicem Hai Phong 1-0 at the Chi Lang Stadium.  Although they were without striker Merlo who was suffering from serious injury, SHB DN took control of the game in the opening minutes.  After receiving Minh Phuong’s accurate pass, striker Milorad opened the scoring for the home side in the 4^th minute.  The win helped SHB DN keep their hopes of winning the league alive.

SHB DN’s midfielder Hoang Quang with the ball

Ha Noi T&T defeated Thanh Hoa 3-2 at the Hang Day Stadium, whilst Song Lam Nghe An had a convincing 3-1 win over Saigon Xuan Thanh Cement.

In other matches, Kien Giang suffered a 1-0 defeat to the home team Ninh Binh at the Ninh Binh Stadium.  As a result, Kien Giang might soon have to say an official farewell to the V-League, although they still have 2 matches left to play.

Hoang Anh Gia Lai played out a goalless draw against Binh Duong at the Binh Duong Stadium, while Dong Tam Long An were defeated 3-1 by Dong Nai at the Dong Nai Stadium.

After the first 20 rounds, HN T&T still top the league with 38 points, followed by SLNA on 36, and SHB DN on 34.  Ninh Binh and Kien Giang are the bottom 2, with 22 and 16 points respectively.

SHB DN's next game is a crucial away match at 2^nd position SLNA on Sunday 25 August at 5pm, which they must win to have any chance at all of retaining their status as champions.