News Roundup 17/11: Xuan Son shines, Vietnam U22 team ready.

The focus of Vietnamese football on November 17th revolved around two main issues: the Vietnamese national team accelerating preparations for their match against Laos in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, with a highlight being Nguyen Xuan Son's performance; and the U22 Vietnamese team finalizing their strategies to counter U22 South Korea in the Panda Cup. In addition, Da Nang overcame difficulties to win 3-2 against SLNA in the National Cup, while the Asian competition witnessed a match halted for over 7 minutes when a Lion City Sailors player collapsed, but he has since recovered.

Xuan Son impresses, paving the way for a starting spot against Laos.

During his first training session in Laos, Nguyen Xuan Son continued to impress with his skillful maneuvers, drawing admiration from his teammates. Coach Kim Sang-sik highly praised the striker's efforts and is likely to use him in the match against Laos. The Vietnamese national team has two more training sessions to finalize their lineup before the match on November 19th.

Vietnam national team holds first training session in Laos, new players integrate quickly.

Under favorable weather conditions, the Vietnamese team practiced tactics and played competitive matches right from their first day in Laos. The new players, especially center-back Khổng Minh Gia Bảo, showed good integration and determination to prove themselves.

Sharing his thoughts on being called up for the first time, Gia Bao said he was very surprised and happy. The young central defender put in his best effort in every training session and did not forget to express his gratitude to coach Van Sy Son – who helped him get an important stepping stone before joining the national team.

Vietnam U22 tightens their formation and increases their aerial attack options against South Korea U22.

Ahead of the final match of the Panda Cup, coach Dinh Hong Vinh stated that the Vietnam U22 team prioritizes maintaining their formation, increasing defensive coverage, and adjusting personnel to counter the South Korea U22 team. Two players with a height of 1.95m, Quang Kiet and goalkeeper Nguyen Tan, are likely to be used to support in defending against aerial balls and diversify tactical options.

Strengths and intensity

After two matches at the Panda Cup 2025, despite some limitations in defense, midfield, and finishing ability, the Vietnam U22 team showed a significant improvement in fighting spirit and physical fitness. The entire team maintained a high intensity against strong opponents, providing a foundation for coach Kim Sang-sik to continue refining tactics for upcoming major tournaments.

Da Nang defeated SLNA 3-2 in the National Cup despite the absence of Bui Tien Dung.

In the Round of 16 of the National Cup, Da Nang defeated SLNA 3-2 despite the absence of goalkeeper Bui Tien Dung due to a torn ligament requiring surgery. The team from the Han River started impressively with two goals from Anh Tuan and Makaric, before Dinh Duy sealed the victory. This result served as a significant morale boost for the entire team.

Asian Women's Champions League: Lion City Sailors player stabilizes after collapsing.

The match between Lion City Sailors and Ho Chi Minh City in the AFC Women's Champions League was interrupted for more than 7 minutes after Nur Ain Salleh suddenly collapsed in the 76th minute. Coach Yeong Sheau Shyan said the player was taken to the hospital and is now conscious and stable. The incident also marked a turning point, allowing the Ho Chi Minh City women's team to score and win the match.

The overall picture on November 17th

Xuan Son's confidence, the quick integration of new players like Gia Bao, and the clear tactical adjustments in the Vietnam U22 team show that the national teams are heading in the right direction. At the club level, Da Nang's 3-2 victory in the Asian tournament, despite the absence of key players and the timely handling of health issues, concluded a vibrant day for Vietnamese football.