The National Futsal Championship will kick off on March 29 in Ho Chi Minh City with new rules, under which 10 teams will compete in a two-stage tournament.

Illustrative image (Source: VNA)

Previously, teams took part in group round then advanced to the knockout round.

From March 29-April 7, teams will be divided into two groups competing in a round robin format. The top four teams from each group will advance to the final stages from April 12-25, who will compete in another round robin competition to find a champion.

The top six teams will receive a wide-card to the second stage of next year's event.

According the Viet Nam Football Federation, the new rule will give players more chance to compete and raise the competitiveness of the tournament.

This year's winners will be awarded 80 million VND (3,800 USD), and the organisers will also award prizes for best player, best goalie and top scorer.