FIFA's action sparks excitement with newly naturalized star debut for Vietnam national team

FIFA's fanpage posted images of Hoàng Hên singing the national anthem during his official debut for Vietnam national team.

On March 26 evening, Vietnam national team entered a friendly match against Bangladesh at Hàng Đẫy Stadium, with a special highlight in the starting lineup named Đỗ Hoàng Hên.

The midfielder from Hà Nội FC was officially given the opportunity to start by coach Kim Sang-sik in his first appearance at the national team level. This is a memorable milestone, helping Hoàng Hên follow Nguyễn Xuân Son to become the second naturalized player to play for Vietnam national team under coach Kim Sang Sik.

FIFA's official fanpage also posted images of Hoàng Hên standing under the national flag and singing the national anthem clearly. The naturalized midfielder originally from Brazil showed dedication and pride in playing for Vietnam national team through statements before joining the team, the moment of singing the national anthem, and confidently answering post-match interviews in Vietnamese.

Despite playing energetically and impressively, unfortunately Hoàng Hên could not score his first goal in his Vietnam national team debut. Early in the second half, this midfielder nearly created a masterpiece with a beautiful long-range shot but the ball hit the post. However, scoring opportunities will still come for Hoàng Hên in upcoming matches, especially against Malaysia on March 31.

After the 3-0 victory over Bangladesh, coach Kim Sang-sik gave special recognition to the performance and quick adaptability of new player Đỗ Hoàng Hên, while emphasizing personnel experiments aimed at the important match against Malaysia in the final round of Asian Cup 2027 qualification.

Regarding Đỗ Hoàng Hên's performance, coach Kim Sang-sik said he proactively discussed with this player before the match about using him in various attacking positions. “Before the match, I told Hoàng Hên I would use him in multiple positions and Hên was ready. Changing positions helps the coaching staff have more basis to find his most suitable role,” coach Kim Sang-sik shared, adding this is important preparation for the match against Malaysia.

Without needing a 'masterpiece', Hoàng Hên still 'storms' in a special way

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