Malaysian newspaper warns of significant threat from Vietnam's naturalized star lineup

Malaysian media shows clear concern by praising Vietnam's naturalized player squad under coach Kim Sang Sik before the upcoming clash with Malaysia.

Malaysia's New Straits Times (NST) has provided noteworthy assessments of the Vietnamese team ahead of their Asian Cup 2027 qualifying rematch. Accordingly, Malaysian media appears particularly cautious about the naturalized players coach Kim Sang Sik possesses, viewing them as a factor that could create a major difference in the match's dynamics.

The focus of NST's analysis is the Brazilian-origin naturalized duo comprising Nguyen Xuan Son and Do Hoang Hen. These two names are assessed to require Malaysian players' special vigilance, as they not only add professional strength but also bring diversity to Vietnam's tactical operation.

"The match promises many surprises as key striker Nguyen Xuan Son strives to overcome physical barriers. The Brazilian-origin forward is racing against time to fully recover from a thigh injury and recent weight gain issues. Despite limited speed, coach Kim Sang-sik still places full trust in his experience and intelligent positioning. Notably, the emergence of Do Hoang Hen - a player who just obtained Vietnamese citizenship in October 2025 - is expected to bring sharp tactical vision to the midfield. This addition occurs amid Malaysia suffering heavy losses, losing seven crucial naturalized players like Joao Figueiredo or Jon Irazabal due to legal issues," writes New Straits Times.

Not limited to naturalized factors, NST also pays attention to Doan Van Hau – a player returning to the national team after a long absence due to injury. Van Hau's presence is evaluated to provide considerable tactical options for Vietnam's lineup.

"Doan Van Hau is expected to undertake new tactical roles. Accordingly, he may be pushed higher to reduce movement intensity and support direct attacks. Coach Kim Sang-sik himself emphasized that pushing Van Hau forward will help him best regulate fitness to enter the match against Malaysia in peak condition."

According to the schedule, the match between the Vietnamese National Team and the Malaysian National Team will take place at 19:00 on March 31 at Thiên Truong Stadium. Although Group F's outcome is settled with Vietnam securing an early advancement following AFC's penalty on Malaysia, this encounter still holds honor significance and is a notable test for both teams.