Returning from the U23 Asian Championship, Khuất Văn Khang missed a spectacular chance

After returning from the U23 Asian Championship finals, Văn Khang quickly left his mark in the V-League with a free kick that hit the Hải Phòng crossbar, causing regret among supporters.

Coming back from the emotionally charged U23 Asian Championship with a bronze medal, Khuất Văn Khang was promptly given an opportunity by coach Velizar Popov in the V-League. During the 12th round away match at Lạch Tray Stadium against Thể Công Viettel, the young midfielder born in 2003 was substituted in at the start of the second half and immediately made an impact, although he was just a bit unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.

Before Văn Khang’s entry, the match between Hải Phòng and Viettel was fairly balanced but somewhat stagnant. The visitors controlled possession better but created few breakthrough chances, scoring only through Lucao’s penalty, while Hải Phòng mainly relied on quick counterattacks powered by Tagueu’s strength. Seeing the midfield needed more creativity, coach Popov decided to trust Văn Khang right after halftime.

The presence of the midfielder who had just shone on the continental stage made Viettel’s gameplay more fluid and dynamic. Văn Khang moved actively, frequently receiving the ball between lines and ready to deliver threatening passes. The most memorable moment came in the 65th minute.

From a free kick on the right flank, Văn Khang chose not to cross but instead fired a direct shot toward Hải Phòng’s goal. The ball followed an unpredictable trajectory, surpassing goalkeeper Đình Triệu’s reach but unfortunately hit the crossbar, much to the disappointment of Viettel’s players. It was truly a near masterpiece, as just a few centimeters lower and Văn Khang would have scored one of the most beautiful goals of the round.

Although he didn’t score, that play demonstrated Văn Khang’s confidence, courage, and technical quality after returning from the U23 Asian Championship. He is clearly showing significant growth both in his game intelligence and ability to create breakthroughs, qualities that Viettel desperately needs during this fiercely competitive phase of the season.

The match ended with a 2-1 victory for Thể Công Viettel, but for Văn Khang personally, it was also a strong affirmation that he is ready to become a key player at both club and national team levels. If he continues to maintain his current form and confidence, Văn Khang’s “spectacular moments” may no longer just be near misses.