Malaysian newspapers pay attention to Xuan Son after his goal against Laos.
Makanbola called Xuan Son's return a crucial signal for the Vietnamese national team ahead of the race for the top spot in Group F against Malaysia, scheduled to be decided on March 31, 2026.
“This is just the beginning.” Xuan Son's words after scoring against Laos on his return to the Vietnamese national team immediately made headlines in Malaysian media. According to Makanbola, the striker's comeback is a “crucial signal” for the red-shirted team, as the race for the top spot in Group F with Malaysia will be decided on March 31, 2026 – a match considered the “final” of the group.
Highlights from the comeback
In the victory against Laos in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, Xuan Son made his mark with a goal – something the Vietnamese national team needed at this crucial stage of the qualifiers. Alongside him, Pham Tuan Hai was also mentioned for his important contributions, reflecting a clear improvement in the attacking line.
After a long period of injury treatment, the Vietnamese national team striker affirmed his long-term goal: "This is just the beginning; we still have many matches ahead in the coming year." For Makanbola, this message is a reminder of a new source of energy for Vietnam's attacking line.
Why is Malaysia interested in Xuan Son?
Makanbola sees Xuan Son as a player who can make a difference for Vietnam's attack. Three key factors have drawn particular attention from the Malaysian media: his goal on his return; his strong morale message; and the fact that Group F is about to enter a decisive phase. With Malaysia currently leading and Vietnam close behind, any variables in the attack – especially from a newly returned striker – could shift the course of the race.
Xuan Son continued to emphasize the priority of teamwork: "I hope the whole team will continue to play better and bring in more victories, that's the most important thing." With an improving attack, the combination of recently impressive players like Xuan Son and Pham Tuan Hai is expected to help Vietnam diversify its approach to the goal.
Impact on Group F and the match schedule
Malaysia's temporary lead in Group F, with Vietnam close behind, means the direct confrontation on March 31, 2026, is being described as the "final" of the group. In this context, any performance that boosts the confidence of Vietnam's attack is of immediate value – and Xuan Son's goal against Laos is a prime example.
From national teams to clubs
According to Malaysian media, Xuan Son's return is beneficial not only for the Vietnamese national team but also for Nam Dinh Steel Club. Although he didn't play in the first phase of V League 1, he can still participate in other competitions such as the AFC Cup. Maintaining his match fitness is considered crucial for best serving the national team in 2026.
The sounds emanating from the dressing room.
The message "This is just the beginning" and the commitment to "bring more victories" are two crucial pieces for a team seeking stability at a critical stage. Makanbola calls this a positive sign, because mental energy often goes hand in hand with on-field performance – especially in decisive matches.
The race is still long, but Xuan Son's timely return – with a goal and clear statements – has raised the question to be watched: will that form be enough for Vietnam to make a breakthrough against Malaysia when the two teams meet on March 31, 2026?
