Indonesian media reacts strongly to Van Hau's return to the Vietnam national team

The return of Doan Van Hau to the Vietnam national team jersey has become a topic receiving significant attention from regional media, particularly Indonesia.

Page Online Indonesian Football Gallery quickly posted information regarding the 1999-born defender being called back after a long period of absence. Indonesian media shared: "Doan Van Hau officially returns to the Vietnam national team after a long absence and has been summoned for this list. He is being prepared for the match against Malaysia in the 6th round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers."

The Indonesian media article shows the special appeal of Van Hau, not only in Vietnam but also among Southeast Asian fans. In the comments section, many Indonesian supporters also expressed considerable attention to this comeback. One fan remarked: “The Indonesian national team is very 'sensitive' to this player, not because of his tough playing style but because he is too good.” 

Meanwhile, another opinion mentioned the factor of rivalry: “He returns at the right time; Malaysia has unpleasant memories of Van Hau from their most recent encounter.”

Clearly, Van Hau's presence carries not only professional significance but also creates a certain psychological effect on regional opponents. After a long period of injury treatment, the defender under Hanoi Police Club's roster is gradually regaining his form and immediately made an impact upon returning to play, with 1 goal and 1 assist in just the last 4 matches.

Notably, the last time Van Hau wore the Vietnam national team jersey was in June 2023, in a friendly match against Syria. Therefore, this comeback is seen as an awaited turning point under coach Kim Sang Sik.

Not only Van Hau, the return of Tran Dinh Trong also adds depth to the national team's defense, especially as this center-back maintains stable form at the club level. The return of Van Hau, combined with an experienced personnel lineup, is expected to provide the Vietnam national team with additional tactical options against Malaysia.

According to the plan, the Vietnam national team will assemble in Hanoi from March 21. Players participating in the 2025/26 National Cup quarter-finals and the postponed round 13 match of V.League 2025/26 will join later. During this FIFA Days period, the national team will have an international friendly against Bangladesh at 7:00 PM on March 26 at Hang Day Stadium (Hanoi), before moving to Ninh Binh to prepare for hosting Malaysia at Thiên Trường Stadium on March 31 within the framework of the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.