First Division 2026-2027 Round 1 Fixtures and Preview: CAND, Becamex TP.HCM Kick Off

After a busy summer transfer window, the Vietnamese First Division 2026-2027 season officially kicks off this weekend with Round 1 taking place from September 11 to 13, 2026. The season features 14 teams competing for two promotion slots to the V-League, while the bottom two will be relegated. The opening round highlights the return of Công An Nhân Dân (CAND) – a team just relegated from the V-League – and the Ho Chi Minh City derby between Đại học Văn Hiến and Becamex TP.HCM.

CAND determined to return CAND, formerly known as PVF-CAND, endured a difficult V-League season finishing bottom. However, club leadership immediately stated their sole objective: to return to the V-League this season. Backed by the public security force, CAND boasts better financial resources and facilities than most First Division sides. Although detailed squad information is unavailable, experts expect them to employ a defensive counter-attacking style – typical of recently relegated teams but potentially lethal in the lower division. Their opening match will be the first test of this ambition.

Saigon Derby: Đại học Văn Hiến vs Becamex TP.HCM The focal point of Round 1 is undoubtedly the clash between Đại học Văn Hiến and Becamex TP.HCM. Both are based in Ho Chi Minh City, creating an intense intra-city derby. Notably, Becamex TP.HCM is reportedly linked to the Becamex Bình Dương conglomerate – a strong financial force in Vietnamese football. This suggests the club can invest heavily and compete for promotion. Meanwhile, Đại học Văn Hiến has a student identity, often relying on talented young players. The Saigon derby promises a passionate atmosphere in the stands, though security details have not been disclosed.

Thép Cần Thơ: From the ashes of Quảng Ninh Another interesting story is the emergence of Thép Cần Thơ – a club relocated from Quảng Ninh. Such moves often involve financial restructuring and personnel changes. If Thép Cần Thơ receives new investment, they could become an intriguing dark horse. However, if the transition is rocky, the team may face internal instability from the start. Their first match will be a gauge of their stability.

Other fixtures and broadcast channels All 7 matches of Round 1 will be broadcast live on digital and television platforms. FPT Play and TV360 are the main rights holders, alongside HTV and MyTV. The presence of multiple OTT platforms indicates growing interest in the First Division, opening opportunities for increased broadcast revenue for clubs. The full fixture list has been officially announced. Teams such as Phù Đổng, Bình Thuận, Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu, etc., will also begin their campaigns with their own objectives.

Overall assessment This First Division season promises drama with ambitious teams like CAND (a relegated giant), Becamex TP.HCM (financially backed), and mysterious Thép Cần Thơ. The opening matches will shape the early standings and put immediate pressure on coaches. Fans can watch live on FPT Play, TV360, HTV, and MyTV. Don't miss the football festival this weekend!