The VFF President visited and encouraged central defender Hieu Minh in Saudi Arabia.
Following a ligament tear injury sustained in the semi-finals of the 2026 U23 Asian Championship, central defender Nguyen Hieu Minh received encouragement and a commitment of comprehensive treatment support from the President of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF).
On the evening of January 21st (Vietnam time) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the President of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF), Tran Quoc Tuan, personally visited and encouraged central defender Nguyen Hieu Minh. This timely action aimed to boost the morale of the young U23 Vietnam player after his serious injury at the 2026 U23 Asian Championship finals.
The moment of injury in the semi-finals
The incident occurred in the 30th minute of the semi-final match between Vietnam U23 and China U23. While rushing out to intercept an opposing player's attempt to save the ball, Hieu Minh suffered a severe collision and was unable to continue playing, having to leave the field on a stretcher.
Comprehensive examinations and MRI scans at a local hospital confirmed that the 2004-born central defender suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. This poses a significant challenge to the young player's career, with an expected recovery time of 6 to 9 months.
VFF's commitment to providing comprehensive support.
At the meeting, Chairman Tran Quoc Tuan kindly inquired about Hieu Minh's health and presented him with gifts to encourage him. The VFF leader affirmed that the Federation would be responsible for all expenses and would create the best possible conditions in terms of medical care and expertise to help him recover quickly.
According to the plan, immediately after returning to the country, Hieu Minh will be taken to the Vinmec Sports Medicine Center. There, leading doctors will hold a consultation and agree on the most optimal surgical treatment plan for this promising central defender.
The close attention from the VFF not only helps Hieu Minh focus on his treatment but also demonstrates their appreciation for the contributions of young talents to the national team. With maximum support and strong willpower, fans hope that Hieu Minh will soon overcome this difficult period and return to the field in the near future.
