Malaysian media goes wild over Xuân Son ahead of the crucial match against Nam Định

Ahead of the pivotal Group B Shopee Cup clash between Nam Định and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), Malaysian press has given high acclaim to the Vietnamese team, particularly their forward Nguyễn Xuân Son.

Unlike Công An Hà Nội, who exited early from Group A, Nam Định is making a strong impression in Group B. After 4 matches, the Nam Định team leads the group with a perfect winning record, scoring 12 goals and conceding only 2. In their most recent Shopee Cup match, Nam Định comfortably defeated Lion City Sailors 3-0, with Xuân Son scoring twice. However, back in the V.League, they drew 2-2 against Đông Á Thanh Hóa.

Despite some shaky moments, Nam Định’s attacking strength still commands respect from Malaysian media. Makanbola wrote: "Nam Định has scored 21 goals in their last 5 matches, including victories over Lion City Sailors (3-0), Bangkok United (4-1), Eastern SC (9-0), Shan United (3-0), and a 2-2 draw with Thanh Hóa."

On the other side, JDT is no easy opponent. The most successful Malaysian club currently sits second in Group B, just 2 points behind Nam Định. To claim the top spot, JDT must win away, while Nam Định only needs a draw to secure first place.

Like Nam Định, JDT also boasts a high scoring form with 21 goals in their last 5 matches across competitions. They have dominated PDRM (10-0), Shan United (3-0), and Imigresen (5-0), demonstrating excellent control of the game.

According to Makanbola, the key highlight of this match lies with the two main strikers from each team. Malaysian media wrote: "In this goal-fest between Nam Định and JDT, stars Bergson and Xuân Son are expected to be the focal points, adding extra excitement to the big clash between these two clubs."

Nam Định will enter the match with almost their strongest lineup. Meanwhile, JDT recently received good news as three naturalized players — João Figueiredo, Hector Hevel, and Jon Irazabal — had their playing bans temporarily lifted by CAS. This trio played in the 3-0 win over Shan United on January 29, strengthening JDT’s squad depth.