Before the match begins, the players perform a traditional offering ritual. Competitors, dressed in traditional loincloths, recreate a long-standing cultural tradition.

A player launches an attack, tightly clutching the wooden ball and attempting to break through the opposing team's defence to reach the scoring pit.

A bird’s eye view of the muddy playing field of the festival. Surrounded by ancient trees and densely packed spectators, the festivals stands out as a unique community event deeply rooted in the long-standing cultural traditions of the Kinh Bac region.

The Van village mud ball wrestling festival is renowned for its distinctive features.

Players celebrate after scoring.

The 20-kg jackfruit-wood ball symbolizes the sun and demands considerable endurance and agility from player during every movement.

A fierce battle for possession of the ball.

Locals believe being splashed with the festival mud brings good luck.

A panoramic view of the competition.