Malaysian fans erupt in reaction as Xuân Son scores 8 goals in 4 matches

Nguyễn Xuân Son’s impressive tally of 8 goals in 4 matches has sparked a strong reaction among Malaysian supporters, who are worried ahead of the crucial Vietnam vs Malaysia clash as both sides face roster shifts.

Southeast Asian football is focusing attention on Nguyễn Xuân Son, the Nam Định striker who just returned from injury and immediately exploded with a devastating goal-scoring form. His 8 goals in 4 matches have not only created a buzz in Vietnam but also caused a stir among Malaysian fans ahead of the key match in March.

At the Shopee Cup (Southeast Asian Champions Cup), Xuân Son has consecutively set remarkable milestones. After victory against Lion City Sailors, he earned the Man of the Match award for the third consecutive time. Previously, the 1997-born forward scored a hat-trick against Shan United and a brace versus Bangkok United. This brilliant streak has made Xuân Son the regional media’s focal point.

Since returning to the pitch in November 2025, Xuân Son has netted a total of 8 goals in just 4 matches across all competitions, including a goal for the Vietnam national team against Laos. His peak form just as Coach Kim Sang Sik’s squad prepares to face Malaysia makes the opponent wary.

Once these stats circulated, numerous Malaysian fans commented, expressing a mix of worry and caution:

One user wrote: “Xuân Son is truly a goal-scoring machine. If Malaysia doesn’t mark him tightly, they will face big trouble against Vietnam.”

Another fan commented: “8 goals in 4 matches is an incredible figure. Malaysia’s defense must brace themselves.”

Another opinion acknowledged: “Vietnam currently has the most dangerous striker in Southeast Asia. The March match will be extremely challenging.”

Some even expressed concern: “If Xuân Son maintains this form, Malaysia will find it hard to keep a clean sheet.”

Notably, on the evening of January 26, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) announced that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) approved a suspension of sanctions for 7 Malaysian players previously banned by FIFA. This decision allows those players to return and be ready for the upcoming match against Vietnam in March.

With both teams adding key players, the forthcoming encounter promises to be intense, with Nguyễn Xuân Son’s “devastating” form continuing to be the center of attention among Southeast Asian fans.