Xuân Son misses penalty on his V-League comeback day

Xuân Son made his V-League return post-injury, coming on in the second half and failing to convert a penalty in added time, which led Nam Định to lose a win even though the striker was in great scoring shape.

Xuân Son became the focal point of the 2-2 draw between Nam Định and Thanh Hóa in the 12th round of the V-League, as his missed penalty in the final stoppage minute caused the away team to forfeit the win. Notably, the striker was only introduced in the second half, marking his comeback after a long injury recovery period.

Nam Định’s coaching staff’s decision to bring Xuân Son on from the second half reflected caution regarding his fitness, but once on the pitch, he quickly made an impact. With his ability to shield the ball, intelligent movement, and constant pressure, Xuân Son posed the biggest threat to Thanh Hóa’s defense for the remainder of the match.

The climax came in the 90+7th minute when Xuân Son was fouled inside the box, earning Nam Định a penalty. The striker stepped up to take it, but his shot struck the post, much to the team’s disappointment. That moment cost Nam Định a full three points and made Xuân Son the center of mixed emotions.

Nevertheless, this moment does not overshadow Xuân Son’s undeniable class and current form. Before returning to the V-League, he had an astonishing scoring rate at the ASEAN Club Championship with 7 goals in just 3 matches, confirming his status as Nam Định’s top scorer and currently the highest-performing striker on the Vietnamese national team.

Thus, the match in Thanh Hóa held more significance than just a draw. It was Xuân Son’s domestic comeback and a statement that he still has the ability to make a difference, even if his touch and luck were not fully on his side. With his impressive form and improving fitness, Xuân Son promises to remain a key pillar for Nam Định throughout the rest of the season.