VAR technology to elevate V.League 1 matches

In the upcoming matches, VAR will play a significant role, with six out of seven games using this modern technology. Only the match between Quảng Nam and SHB Đà Nẵng will not feature VAR.

The V.League 1 season is off to a great start so far, showcasing some intriguing and surprising developments. As a result, fans are eagerly anticipating the matches set to take place this weekend, in which Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will play an important role.

In the upcoming matches, VAR technology will feature in six out of seven games. Only the match between Quảng Nam and SHB Đà Nẵng will not use VAR.

After the league slowly started applying VAR in the southern and central regions, fans and experts have been very positive about the technology for its accuracy and helpfulness, all while maintaining the excitement of the game. To provide precise guidance to the main referee, the VAR team operate at high intensity, closely monitoring every aspect of the match through screens installed in the VAR van.

Throughout the game, the referees maintain constant communication via a radio system, especially during critical situations on the field. The fans are gradually becoming accustomed to the 'VAR checking' intervals whenever an intervention occurs.

The main referee's decision to review a situation on the screen (on-field review) is made after a discussion with the VAR official. In cases where there is a disagreement or where the VAR situation necessitates further examination, the review screen will be utilised.

On September 28, two exciting matches will kick off: Hoàng Anh Gia Lai (HAGL) will host Nam Định, and Thể Công Viettel Club will face Quy Nhơn Bình Định.

HAGL, featuring a squad of young players in good form, currently lead the rankings. Nam Định, composed of several well-known players, are eager to reclaim the top position, but they will need to 'decode' the HAGL challenge.

HAGL's technical director, Vũ Tiến Thành, said: "We are starting to find our form, and we will definitely perform well against Nam Định. They are the V.League 1 champions, but that doesn’t mean we can’t win. If we seize our opportunities, we can emerge victorious. There isn’t a significant difference between the teams in the league; it’s about assessing the opponent correctly, having suitable tactics, and effective psychological preparation. We are very confident about this. I believe HAGL will perform even better this season."

Meanwhile, Thể Công are also eager to face Quy Nhơn Bình Định, who have not had the start they anticipated.

On September 29, two matches with VAR will take place: Sông Lam Nghệ An (SLNA) vs. Hà Tĩnh at 6pm at Vinh Stadium and HCM City vs Hà Nội at 7.15pm at Thống Nhất Stadium. SLNA are still in search of their first win but will host the Hà Tĩnh team in excellent form, making this an unpredictable and exciting match. HCM City, energised by a successful away game in Bình Định, are ready to take on Hà Nội, who also need a win to stay competitive in the top group.

On September 30, two other matches featuring VAR will occur: Đông Á Thanh Hóa against Hải Phòng at 6pm at Thanh Hóa Stadium and Hà Nội Police against Bình Dương at 7.15pm at Hàng Đẫy Stadium. These matches are expected to be extremely interesting and tense, with VAR technology providing valuable support to the referees.

The main referees are expected to be Trần Đình Thịnh, Lê Vũ Linh, Nguyễn Trung Kiên and Trần Ngọc Ánh, while the VAR officials will include Đỗ Khánh Nam, Hoàng Thanh Bình and Nguyễn Mạnh Hải.