Indonesian media collectively respond as Đoàn Văn Hậu returns to the field

Indonesian media express particular attention to the return of defender Đoàn Văn Hậu following over two years of injury recovery.

On the evening of December 3, Đoàn Văn Hậu officially made his return to the pitch after a persistent 25-month injury. Coach Mano Polking included him in the starting lineup for the match between CAHN Club and Buriram United in the Shopee Cup 2025/26.

Throughout the 90 minutes, Văn Hậu delivered an impressive performance. He attracted attention from Southeast Asian media, especially Indonesia, as before his injury, the 1999-born defender was considered a "nightmare" for the Garuda team.

The page Pecinta Timnas Indonesia praised the Vietnamese national team defender and commented that Văn Hậu's comeback will add more excitement to future matches between Vietnam and Indonesia:

"The Vietnamese national team center-back, known for his resilience and controversy, even sparked rumors of early retirement due to worsening injuries. However, this week, Southeast Asian fans were shocked by his return wearing CAHN colors at the Southeast Asian Club Championship.

Văn Hậu played the full 90 minutes against Buriram United in a match that ended 1-1. His comeback is a significant highlight, considering he has been absent for over two seasons undergoing long-term rehabilitation. This return seems to dispel all doubts that his career was over.

For Indonesian fans, the name Văn Hậu certainly holds special memories—from his playing style, aggressive tackles, to endless controversial moments against Garuda. Now, he is back on the field, ready to add new colors to the rivalry between Indonesia and Vietnam," the article noted. this publication commented.

Meanwhile, TV One News seems unable to forget the incident between Đoàn Văn Hậu and player Evan Dimas at the 2019 SEA Games. The article was titled: "The figure who contributed to Evan Dimas’ early retirement unexpectedly appears ahead of SEA Games 2025."

"In fact, Đoàn Văn Hậu disappeared from the football world after suffering a heel injury in September 2023. The former SC Heerenveen player even underwent multiple surgeries and a prolonged recovery process.

Ultimately, the 1999-born player suddenly appeared just before the SEA Games 2025. Without prior notice, preparation, or even coming off the bench, Đoàn Văn Hậu was in the starting lineup for CAHN’s match against Buriram United on Wednesday (March 12, 2025).Although the match ended in a draw, Đoàn Văn Hậu received praise for playing the entire 90 minutes,the article stated.

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