Previously, teams took part in group round then advanced to the knockout round.
From March 29-April 7, teams will be divided into two groups competingin a round robin format. The top four teams from each group willadvance to the final stages from April 12-25, who will compete inanother round robin competition to find a champion.
The top six teams will receive a wide-card to the second stage of next year's event.
Accordingthe Vietnam Football Federation, the new rule will give players morechance to compete and raise the competitiveness of the tournament.
Thisyear's winners will be awarded 80 million VND (3,800 USD), and theorganisers will also award prizes for best player, best goalie and topscorer.-VNA