Thai media: 'Vietnam national team summons Southeast Asia nightmare'

Doan Van Hau officially returns to the Vietnam national team after nearly 3 years absence, drawing attention from Thai media who call him the "Southeast Asia nightmare".

The return of Doan Van Hau to the Vietnam national team roster not only attracts domestic attention, but also prompts regional media, especially Thailand, to engage in extensive discussion.

Specifically, Thailand's Mr Football AEC news site published an article with an impressive headline, calling Van Hau the "nightmare of Southeast Asia" as he is recalled to the Vietnam national team after a long absence. The Thai-language article content emphasizes:

"The nightmare of ASEAN! Van Hau returns to the national team after nearly 3 years."

This site also praises the 1999-born defender extensively, calling him "the legendary left-back of the Vietnam national team", who previously played in Europe for Heerenveen and is a key element in the squad.

According to Mr Football AEC, Van Hau last wore the Vietnam national team jersey in a 1-0 win over Syria in June 2023, before taking a long break due to knee and ankle injuries. After nearly 2 years and 9 months absence, this player has returned thanks to stable performance for Hanoi Police Club, where he scored 1 goal and provided 1 assist in 9 appearances.

Van Hau's prolonged absence previously left the Vietnam national team's left flank unstable. Though many replacement options were tried, none provided the solidity like the Thai Binh-born player. Therefore, this comeback is seen as an extremely crucial addition.

Not only a positive signal for squad strength, Van Hau's return also carries significant morale meaning. With extensive international experience and robust playing style, this defender is expected to help the Vietnam national team enhance competitiveness, especially in the encounter against Malaysia during the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying round.

After nearly 3 years absence due to injuries and various incidents, Doan Van Hau has officially returned, carrying high expectations from fans and also caution from regional opponents.