The 2026-2027 V-League season kicked off on September 4, with a match between Thể Công Viettel and TP. Đồng Nai at Bình Phước Stadium. Thể Công Viettel emerged victorious with a score of 2-0. Following the match, Coach Việt Thắng of TP. Đồng Nai expressed his thoughts on player Công Phượng, who started the game on the bench.

Coach Thắng explained that Công Phượng was not included in the starting lineup due to a lack of preparation with the team at the beginning of the season. However, he was pleasantly surprised by Phượng's performance after he came on as a substitute. Thắng remarked, "Công Phượng is an outstanding player, both in terms of his competitive spirit and attitude. I believe the captain's armband I gave him was well-deserved, and I hope he continues to lead our team on the field."

In a notable moment during the match, referee Đỗ Khánh Nam, with assistance from VAR referee Trần Ngọc Nhớ, reviewed several incidents in the penalty area. The most significant decision came in the dying minutes when Nam overturned his initial decision to award a penalty to TP. Đồng Nai.

Coach Thắng commented on the penalty situation, stating, "I wanted a penalty, but we must respect the referee's decision. They had several minutes to review the situation, and I have no reason to pressure them. Football has no 'ifs.' I admire the attitude and fighting spirit of my players, especially against a strong team like Thể Công Viettel, which includes national team players and experienced foreigners."

Despite the loss, Coach Thắng expressed pride in his team's resilience and determination, especially after losing a player to a red card in the 76th minute. He emphasized that they never gave up and hoped they would continue to play with the same spirit throughout the season.