Vietnamese U19 Defender: 'The pressure is immense, but I believe I can handle it'

Before the Vietnamese U19 team's training session on March 18th afternoon, player Hoàng Minh Hợi shared noteworthy insights with the media regarding his journey of self-affirmation and his goals for this training camp.

Although a defender, he once earned the Top Scorer title at the 2026 U19 National Finals with 4 goals. Hoàng Minh Hợi believes his personal achievements are inseparable from the team's contributions. “As a defender, I think it suits me. Scoring goals isn't just my own effort; it's thanks to my excellent teammates supporting me that I managed those goals.”, Minh Hợi shared.

After an impressive 2025 season, the 2007-born player acknowledged that being called up to the national team Vietnamese U19 is both a pride and a motivation to continue improving himself. “That adds motivation for me to strive and be more determined, because when joining the national team, the competition for my position is very intense.”, Minh Hợi said.

Sharing about his ideal role model, Hoàng Minh Hợi stated he always aims to emulate defender Quế Ngọc Hải. “I want to strive to reach a level like Quế Ngọc Hải. I really admire his leadership qualities and his passing.”, the young player from Sông Lam Nghệ An expressed.

Within the training environment of the Nghệ-based club and when joining the national team, Minh Hợi said he has learned a lot from senior players, not only professionally but also in lifestyle awareness and attitude. “They always remind us to be respectful, maintain ethics, strive harder, and listen to the Coaching Board to improve ourselves,” Minh Hợi added.

Evaluating head coach Yutaka Ikeuchi's football philosophy, this defender believes the Japanese coach's approach suits the current generation of players. Accordingly, the team aims for a ball-control style combined with high pressing, requiring proactive play and good coordination between positions.

Facing competitive pressure and the Coaching Board's squad screening plan, Minh Hợi frankly admitted having certain worries. However, he affirmed he will exert maximum effort to prove his capability. “Competition certainly brings pressure, but I believe I can do it and will strive to remain with the team.”, the young Vietnamese U19 player emphasized.

With confidence and a progressive spirit, Hoàng Minh Hợi is demonstrating his determination to secure his place in the Vietnamese U19 National Team jersey, aiming for important goals in 2026.