Brazil naturalized player speaks out about competition pressure with Vietnam U23 squad

Naturalized midfielder Đỗ Hoàng Hên shares his first thoughts on competing against the talented U23 Vietnamese players for a place in the national team in the future.

During the training session preparing for the match between Hanoi FC and Hai Phong in round 13 of the 2025/26 V.League, Hoàng Hên showed clear focus and determination alongside the whole team. Hoàng Hên stated: “We always prepare plans to try to win every match. In the V.League, no game is easy, especially with coach Chu Đình Nghiêm who knows us very well. But hopefully, we will keep our spirit high, work hard, and I believe we will achieve victory.”

Apart from club matters, the topic of the possibility of representing the Vietnam national team was also raised by reporters. With the U23 Vietnam squad showing impressive performances and creating strong competition in the national team, many are curious about the feelings of a naturalized player like Hoàng Hên.

In response to this question, Hoàng Hên emphasized: “I feel very happy to see the young U23 players performing so well recently. It’s also a joy and a promise for a bright future of Vietnamese football. I don’t think too much about the chance to be called up. I always try to do my best to improve day by day. For me, tomorrow must be better than today, and that’s what I always aim for..”

Besides professional matters, the midfielder also revealed his plans for celebrating Tet Lunar New Year 2026, a special occasion as it will be his first Tet as a Vietnamese citizen. He shared: “This Tet is very special because it’s the first time I get to celebrate it as a Vietnamese citizen. My plan is to stay in Hanoi since we don’t have many days off. The V.League also only pauses for a short period. There will be gatherings with friends and my girlfriend. I will enjoy it as much as possible here..”

Hoàng Hên expressed: “The lucky money (lì xì) is very fortunate. But beyond that, I also value the customs and traditions of Vietnam. I am considering doing charity work in hospitals because, as you know, there are people who are not fortunate enough to enjoy a complete Tet. So I want to visit them and send my encouragement and wishes for everyone to have a warm and prosperous Tet. I truly love this cultural aspect of Vietnam..”

According to the schedule, Hanoi FC will host Hai Phong at Hang Day Stadium at 7:15 PM on February 7th in round 13 of the 2025/26 V.League.