Cong Phuong returns to V-League after 1,400 days: A controversial debut with Dong Nai

After nearly four years away, Cong Phuong has officially returned to V-League in the colors of Dong Nai – a club that earned promotion by winning the First Division championship in May 2026. But the 31-year-old striker's comeback did not go as expected. At home, Dong Nai lost 0-2 to The Cong in the opening round of the 2026-2026 season, and the focus of the match quickly shifted from the scoreline to a controversial VAR incident. Cong Phuong, wearing number 10 and the captain's armband, was introduced in the 60th minute with the score already 0-2. In 30 minutes on the pitch, he took corners and free kicks, one of which created a headed chance that hit the post. In stoppage time, Cong Phuong won a penalty after a collision in the box. He placed the ball on the spot, but before he could take it, referee Do Khanh Nam consulted VAR and after three minutes overturned his decision, dropping the ball for The Cong's goalkeeper to play. Cong Phuong's reaction after the match drew equal attention. He repeatedly questioned the referee, skipped the handshake ritual with Nam, and had to be pulled away by assistant coach Le Phuoc Tu. In the press conference, coach Nguyen Viet Thang refused to comment on the officiating but praised his captain's fighting spirit: 'I believe giving the captain's armband to Cong Phuong was not a wrong choice. I want him to maintain that to lead this team.' Cong Phuong's return was expected to bring fresh energy to Dong Nai – a newly promoted club with a sustainable development philosophy. Club chairman Pham Huong Son had refused a special promotion spot when Quang Nam withdrew, wanting the team to earn promotion on merit. That decision paid off with the First Division title. However, stepping into the top flight, Dong Nai faces huge challenges in squad quality and experience. Tactically, Cong Phuong was deployed as an attacking midfielder or second striker, responsible for creativity and set pieces. His presence made Dong Nai's attacks more diverse, but the team still lacks a backup plan if he is neutralized. In the first half, Dong Nai created almost no clear chances from open play; all pressure came from dead-ball situations after Cong Phuong entered. This reveals an over-reliance on one player, a clear tactical risk. The VAR controversy also raises questions about technology implementation in V-League. Referee Nam followed correct protocol by consulting VAR and making the final call. But losing a stoppage-time penalty – Dong Nai's clearest scoring opportunity – caused Cong Phuong and his teammates to lose composure. If the striker faces disciplinary action for disrespecting the referee, Dong Nai will lose its spiritual leader and main creative force in upcoming matches. From a media perspective, the 'return of the hero' narrative is quickly turning into a 'disappointing debut.' Public pressure may increase if Dong Nai loses again in the next rounds. However, with backing from the board and the coach's trust, Cong Phuong still has a chance to prove his worth. The next match will be a real test for both him and the team: can they overcome the opening shock, or will they sink into a relegation battle? A lesson from the past adds another layer. Cong Phuong previously missed a penalty in the promotion playoff with Binh Phuoc (Dong Nai's predecessor). This coincidence heightens the drama. But at 31, with a three-year contract, Cong Phuong has little time to waste. He needs to control his emotions, focus on football, and prove he deserves the captain's armband. In an increasingly competitive V-League, Dong Nai must adapt quickly. Cong Phuong's signing is a good PR move, but the team needs more attacking options beyond set pieces. Otherwise, losses like the one to The Cong will keep happening, and the promoted side's survival dream may soon fade.