Hoàng Anh Gia Lai loses 1-3 to Hải Phòng amid VAR controversy

Hoàng Anh Gia Lai (HAGL) suffered a 1-3 defeat against Hải Phòng in the second round of the 2026-2027 V.League at Pleiku Stadium. HAGL took an early lead in the 10th minute through a header by Gia Bảo, but Hồ Minh Dĩ equalized for Hải Phòng eight minutes later.

In the second half, Milan Makaric scored a brace to secure the win for the visitors, including a decisive goal in stoppage time following a defensive error. The match was played on a muddy pitch due to heavy rainfall prior to kickoff, which impacted the playing conditions.

The result sparked significant controversy regarding the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. HAGL had two key opportunities overturned: a goal by Nay Di Đan was disallowed for offside, and a penalty claim for a foul on Nguyễn Thanh Nhân was also rescinded following a VAR review. HAGL coach Lê Quang Trãi criticized the officiating and the lack of transparency in how VAR decisions are communicated to fans and teams.