Vietnamese overseas star impresses in first national team assembly with a special touch

For his first call-up to the Vietnam national team, Le Giang Patrik felt deeply moved after more than three years of anticipation and affirmed his determination to give his all.

On the afternoon of June 23, the Vietnam national team officially kicked off their first training session during the gathering to prepare for the ASEAN Cup 2026. Alongside the presence of many new faces and adjustments in the coaching staff, the spotlight on the training ground was goalkeeper Le Giang Patrik, who appeared in the national team jersey for the very first time.

After more than three years waiting to complete necessary procedures, the goalkeeper of Vietnamese-Slovak descent finally realized his dream of wearing the Vietnam national team shirt.Patrik's inclusion is expected to heighten competition in the goalkeeper position, while also providing a quality option for coach Kim Sang Sik in his quest to defend Southeast Asia's crown.

Speaking to reporters before the training session, Le Giang Patrik couldn't hide his special emotions upon being called up to the national team for the first time. He said: “I’m truly happy and proud. After more than three years of waiting, I’m finally here. I want to thank the Cong An Ha Noi Club, the VFF, my lawyers in Europe, and everyone who has supported me throughout this time. This is a very joyful moment for me.”

Beyond attracting attention for his extensive match experience in V.League, Patrik quickly adapted to the new environment. The 33-year-old goalkeeper revealed that he received enthusiastic support from teammates and the coaching staff from the very first days of the camp. “The atmosphere in the team is fantastic. Everyone is very friendly and has helped me a lot. We will try to prepare well in the coming time for the ASEAN Cup 2026,” Patrik shared.

For this training camp, coach Kim Sang Sik summoned 28 players, blending seasoned veterans, promising young talents, naturalized players, and in-form Vietnamese-origin footballers. Alongside squad evaluation, the coaching staff aims to build team depth ahead of key objectives in 2026.

Concluding the interview, Le Giang Patrik sent a determined message to fans. Speaking in fairly fluent Vietnamese, he affirmed: “I will always give my all for the national team and the Vietnamese fans. That is my goal!” With a strong desire to contribute and the team’s systematic preparation, the Vietnam national team is steadily perfecting its machinery, ready to aim for the highest goals at the ASEAN Cup 2026.