Lam Dong Secure Promotion to Vietnam First Division After Dramatic Playoff Victory

The victory earned Lam Dong the third and final promotion berth to the 2026-27 National First Division, ending a 14-year stay in the country’s second-tier league.

Lam Dong and Truong Giang Gia Dinh entered the decisive match with a history of closely contested encounters during the group stage. Lam Dong won their first meeting 2-1 in Da Lat on April 19 before holding their opponents to a goalless draw in the return fixture in Tam Hiep on May 22.

Cautious Contest Ends in Penalty Drama

With promotion at stake, both teams adopted a cautious approach throughout regulation time, producing few clear-cut chances.

Lam Dong came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half when a shot struck the post, while Truong Giang Gia Dinh hit the crossbar after the break.

With the match goalless after 90 minutes, the final promotion spot was decided by a penalty shootout.

Goalkeeper Emerges as Match Hero

Lam Dong’s hopes appeared to fade early in the shootout after one player missed the target and another effort was saved by the opposing goalkeeper.

However, goalkeeper Truong Lam Nhat turned the shootout around, saving three consecutive penalties to help Lam Dong secure a 4-3 shootout victory and seal promotion.

His performance proved decisive in one of the most dramatic matches of the season.

Promotion Achieved After 14 Years

The win secured Lam Dong's return to the National First Division after 14 consecutive years competing in the National Second Division.

Earlier in the tournament, Tre Ha Noi (Hanoi Youth) FC and Hue FC had already secured the first two promotion places.

As a result, the three clubs promoted to next season’s National First Division are Tre Ha Noi , Hue and Lam Dong.

Meanwhile, Phu Dong Youth FC and Mekong Can Tho FC were relegated and will compete in Vietnam’s Third Division next season.