CAHN suffers a major loss as key foreign striker sustains injury

CAHN defeats Ninh Bình 2-1 to maintain top spot in V-League, but main striker Alan Grafite suffers a muscle injury and leaves the field early.

Hanoi Police Football Club (CAHN) secures a 2-1 victory over Ninh Bình in round 16 of V-League 2025/26 to continue holding the leading position in the standings. However, the joy for the police-sector team is not complete as main striker Alan Grafite suffers a muscle injury and has to leave the field early.

In the match against a direct competitor, CAHN demonstrated proactive play from the opening minutes with a high-pressing style under coach Mano Polking. The early goal allowed the visiting team to control the match for most of the playing time, thereby creating a crucial foundation to secure all three points.

Although Ninh Bình attempted to rally in the second half, CAHN maintained necessary solidity. Coach Mano Polking's players performed with discipline and effectively utilized opportunities to conclude the match with a 2-1 victory, thereby strengthening their advantage in the championship race this season.

Nevertheless, this victory also causes concern for CAHN's coaching staff as striker Alan Grafite encounters a muscular issue. The Brazilian forward is currently one of the team's top-performing players and plays a vital role in the attacking system.

Sharing after the match, coach Mano Polking acknowledged this is a significant loss for CAHN. "It is a major loss. Alan is currently the top scorer of the league and is highly eager to contribute. A muscle injury could keep him sidelined for quite some time. But we have a squad with depth, and other players must be ready to seize the opportunity."

Despite facing the risk of missing their key striker in the coming period, CAHN remains confident thanks to their deep squad. Coach Mano Polking believes the remaining players will be prepared to step in when needed to help the team continue maintaining form during the crucial phase of the season.