V-League title race hots up with three teams in the running

HCM CITY — The V-League title race is likely to take another twist tomorrow when top teams perform in the 25th and penultimate round of the Eximbank V-League 2012.

The V-League title race has become all the more exciting as a two-team race changed into a three-horse race after Ha Noi and Da Nang drew at home last weekend, allowing third-placed Sai Gon Xuan Thanh to reduce the gap.

The three top teams are separated by only one point, and all of them have equal chances to take the title.

Ha Noi T&T, leading the table with 46 points, will take on Hoang Anh Gia Lai on the latter's home turf, Hang Day Stadium.

Despite being rated higher, the 2010 V-League champions will have to battle to beat the visitors.

Da Nang, second with 45 points, also enjoy a home advantage, taking on relegation-threatened Dong Thap at Chi Lang Stadium.

However, it is clear that Da Nang will face a determined performance from Dong Thap, which cannot afford to lose the match.

Sai Gon Xuan Thanh, third with 44 points, will face Becamex Binh Duong.

It could be the decisive match for Xuan Thanh because Binh Duong can beat any team when they are in form. A loss could cost Xuan Thanh the title.

On the other end of the table, Kien Giang have an excellent opportunity to earn three points to stay in the V-League when they visit already-relegated Hai Phong.

Also, it will not be easy for Khanh Hoa to free themselves from relegation worries when they visit Thanh Hoa, which is playing well at home.

In other matches, Song Lam Nghe An will face Ninh Binh and Navibank will take on Ha Noi FC. — VNS