Indonesian Newspaper: 'The Return of Văn Hậu Poses Challenges for Vietnam National Team'

Indonesian media, specifically SuperBall, recently published a notable article about the Vietnam national team's personnel situation ahead of the March training camp. The focus was on Đoàn Văn Hậu and the selection dilemma faced by coach Kim Sang-sik.

SuperBall commented: "The comeback of Đoàn Văn Hậu is causing difficulties for Vietnam's head coach, Kim Sang-sik, in choosing his squad."

According to the article, "After nearly two years sidelined due to injury, Đoàn Văn Hậu made an impressive return. He has consistently started as left-back for CAHN in recent matches."

SuperBall also emphasized: "Although the 26-year-old player has not fully regained his peak form, he remains a top choice for the team. Notably, Văn Hậu's physique is now slimmer compared to before his injury, and his playing style shows more maturity. Instead of the aggressive tackles that once defined him, his defensive interventions are now better controlled, despite standing 1.86 meters tall."

SuperBall continued analyzing: "Văn Hậu’s improving form is clearly a positive sign for Kim Sang-sik. However, the Korean coach faces a tough decision in selecting the left-back position. Recently, Cao Pendant Quang Vinh has frequently started alongside Nguyễn Văn Vĩ and Phan Tuấn Tài in the Vietnam lineup."

The fact that Cao Pendant Quang Vinh has maintained a starting spot recently makes Kim Sang-sik’s personnel arrangement more complicated. Moreover, SuperBall referred to a tactical approach previously used by coach Mano Polking at CAHN, where Văn Hậu played as a left-sided center-back, allowing both him and Quang Vinh to be utilized simultaneously.

With Vietnam preparing for an important match against Malaysia, SuperBall suggested: "Kim Sang-sik could very well adopt a similar strategy when Vietnam hosts Malaysia on March 31, in the final match of Group F in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.”

If both Văn Hậu and Quang Vinh start together, it might be a surprising option for their opponents. Therefore, Văn Hậu’s comeback is not just a personal story but also opens up an interesting tactical puzzle for Vietnam in the crucial upcoming phase.