The Lam River in Nghe An and the problem of the absence of Zaracho.

While Sebastian Zaracho's absence might not have worried Nghe An fans too much in the early stages of the season, at this point, the absence of the Paraguayan center-back will significantly weaken the team's defense.

Indeed, since 2025, Sebastian Zaracho has shown remarkable progress. It seems the Paraguayan center-back has found a connection with his teammates, creating a solid defensive wall in front of goalkeeper Nguyen Van Viet's goal.

In particular, the arrival of center-back Hoang Van Khanh has given Song Lam Nghe An a formidable central defensive pairing: one experienced and skillful, the other strong and combative. This is one of the reasons why the Nghe An team is expected to improve its performance in 2025.

The absence of Sebastian Zaracho will mean Hoang Van Khanh loses a valuable partner. Especially in recent matches, the Paraguayan center-back has consistently stood out with saves that were practically goal-scoring opportunities.

The most likely replacement for Zaracho in the upcoming match is Le Van Thanh. This center-back, wearing jersey number 5, has performed quite well in 2025.Le Van ThanhThey demonstrated strength in contested situations and the ability to choose good positions to win aerial duels.

However, Le Van Thanh's weaknesses are speed and stamina. The 2001-born center-back is quite slow in speed races against opposing strikers and only has enough stamina to play for about 70 minutes.

Furthermore, with Le Van Thanh's presence, Hoang Van Khanh will have to play as a left-sided center-back. This position could put the number 55 defender in a difficult position when dealing with situations involving his left foot. Therefore, coach Phan Nhu Thuat needs to consider backup options for center-back Le Van Thanh.

It could be young player Tran Nam Hai. In the recent National Cup quarter-finals, the 21-year-old was brought on as a substitute for Le Van Thanh in the final minutes. Tran Nam Hai's strengths are his physique, intelligent playing style, and familiarity with the left-sided center-back position. Therefore, if included in the lineup, Tran Nam Hai could help Song Lam Nghe An temporarily forget about the absence of Sebastian Zaracho.

However, there are also some concerns about using Tran Nam Hai in the upcoming match. The 2004-born player hasn't played much this season. This will greatly affect his match fitness and his connection with his teammates on the field.

Similarly, the situation is the same for center-back Ho Khac Luong. A series of injuries has meant that the 24-year-old has only played 3 matches this season. Therefore, if he does get to play, there will be concerns about his fitness and match fitness.

In addition, with a height of 1.72m, Ho Khac Luong will also have difficulty in situations involving aerial balls. Especially when,Ho Chi Minh City ClubWe rely heavily on crosses and set-piece situations to score goals.

It's safe to say that Sebastian Zaracho's suspension will give coach Phan Như Thuật a headache in finding a suitable replacement. Hopefully, the coaching staff of the Nghe An team will have the best possible preparations to help the team achieve a favorable result in the upcoming match.

Spring of Quy