Do Hoang Hen joins the Vietnamese national team: A solution to reactivate Nguyen Xuan Son's killer instinct.
The inclusion of newcomer Do Hoang Hen in the March FIFA Days squad is expected to help striker Nguyen Xuan Son regain his peak form thanks to their exceptional chemistry.
The Vietnam Football Federation has just announced the 23-player squad for the Vietnamese national team preparing for the FIFA Days in March. Alongside seasoned veterans, fans' attention is focused on newcomer Do Hoang Hen (Hendrio Araujo). The inclusion of the Brazilian-born midfielder brings a fresh dynamic to the attack and sparks hope for a reunion of the most formidable attacking duo in V.League history, Nguyen Xuan Son and Do Hoang Hen, in the national team.
The journey from 'Samba dancer' to wearing the Vietnamese national team jersey.
In October 2025, Hendrio Araujo officially received Vietnamese citizenship under the name Do Hoang Hen. This is the culmination of five years of dedicated service, from his early days playing for Binh Dinh to his brilliant performances at Thien Truong Stadium. Coach Kim Sang-sik's decision to call up Do Hoang Hen was a strategic turning point, especially given the national team's need for more unpredictability and a modern approach to the game.
Do Hoang Hen's integration into the Hanoi FC squad is the clearest evidence of this midfielder's class. Despite only being eligible to play from round 7 of this season's V.League as a domestic player, the 1994-born player has quickly proven his worth. With 6 goals and 4 assists in just 10 matches, his goal-scoring efficiency is impressive at 1 goal per game, reflecting the superior technique of a star who trained at the renowned La Masia academy.
The 'key' to relieving pressure on Nguyen Xuan Son
The greatest value that Do Hoang Hen brings to the Vietnamese national team right now is his ability to awaken Nguyen Xuan Son's goal-scoring instinct. In fact, after his injury, Xuan Son went through a difficult period in the V.League, with his finishing lacking the usual sharpness. The biggest fear for a center forward is isolation when lacking compatible partners to provide the ball.
In the 2023/2024 season, the Son-Hên duo together established a powerful attacking empire in the history of Nam Định football. A connection, almost like telepathy, existed between them. Đỗ Hoàng Hên was likened to a conductor with keen vision, capable of creating deadly spaces for Xuân Son to exploit. The arrival of the midfielder from Hanoi FC was expected to be a boost, both professionally and mentally, for the team's main striker.
A test of character against the Malaysian team.
The upcoming crucial match against Malaysia will be a vital test for this combination. Their opponent is known for its pressing and physically demanding style of play, making this the ideal stage for Do Hoang Hen's character to shine. The blend of the fighting spirit of the domestic players and the class of naturalized players like Xuan Son and Hoang Hen is painting a vibrant picture for the Vietnamese national team under coach Kim Sang-sik.
