Vietnam National Team defender honored at Southeast Asia tournament

Văn Vĩ received the best player award for the game between Nam Định and Johor Darul Ta’zim FC.

The 1-1 draw against Johor Darul Ta’zim FC in the final group stage match of the Shopee Cup 2025/26 on the evening of February 5th secured Nam Định club’s place in the semifinals as the top team in Group B.

Entering the decisive match for the group lead, Nam Định (12 points) and Johor Darul Ta’zim FC (10 points) both started with strong determination. The home advantage allowed the V.League representative to control possession better, but most of the first half was evenly matched with few clear chances created.

In the 33rd minute, a turning point occurred when goalkeeper Nguyên Mạnh successfully blocked the visitors’ shot and quickly launched a counterattack. Percy Tau passed to Caio Cesar who entered the penalty area and was fouled, earning a penalty for Nam Định. Although Caio Cesar missed the spot-kick against goalkeeper Zubiaurre, Văn Vĩ promptly followed up to score, opening the score for the home team.

The best player of the match, Nguyễn Văn Vĩ, believed Nam Định played well but lacked luck to secure all three points. “Both teams showed great determination, but Nam Định played better today and just missed out on the win due to bad luck,” Văn Vĩ shared. He also emphasized that facing a physically strong team like Johor Darul Ta’zim FC required Nam Định to adopt a sensible approach.

According to Văn Vĩ, the whole team focused on maximizing their strengths rather than engaging in a physical battle. “We have a clear style of play to attack, utilizing our advantages in coordination and ball movement to create chances,”Văn Vĩ stated.

In the final minutes, the Malaysian side pushed forward to find an equalizer. In the 86th minute, from a free-kick situation, Michell handled the ball inside the penalty area, allowing Bergson Silva to score from the penalty spot, sealing the 1-1 draw.

Despite missing out on a victory, Nam Định still achieved their goal by finishing first in Group B at the end of the group stage. Nam Định’s opponent in the Shopee Cup 2025/26 semifinals will be Malaysia’s Selangor FC.