Striker Nguyen Cong Phuong: 'Returning to the Vietnam national team is a great honor'
After nearly two years of absence, striker Nguyen Cong Phuong returned to the national team with great determination. For him, wearing the Vietnamese team jersey is not only a source of pride but also a responsibility.
On the afternoon of May 30, before the first training session with the Vietnamese team to prepare for the important match against Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, striker Nguyen Cong Phuong shared his sincere thoughts with the media.
“The first feeling when I returned was an honor. Not only me, but any player called up to the national team would feel proud. Football is my job, so I always have to try my best, prove myself and show my best to contribute to the team,” Cong Phuong said.
Returning to the national team after more than a year and a half of absence, Cong Phuong admitted that this is a precious opportunity and he will have to work harder than ever. For the striker from Nghe An, playing for the national team is not only a personal honor, but also a sacred responsibility to the Fatherland.
“Not only me, all the players are trying hard every day to get into the rhythm and prove themselves in the eyes of the coaching staff. Everyone is eager to play, and if given the chance, I will try my best for the common goal of the team,” the striker currently playing for Binh Phuoc Club shared.
Notably, in this afternoon's training session, the players of Hanoi Police Club and Binh Duong could not attend due to the V.League's make-up match schedule, and are expected to gather on May 31.
During this training session, the team has about 10 days to prepare thoroughly for the match against Malaysia on June 10. Although he has just returned, Cong Phuong has shown a high level of concentration and is ready to contribute.
“This is a very important match. If we get a good result, our chances of advancing will be greater. I have had impressive matches against Malaysia and this time too, if given the opportunity, I will do my best to help the team achieve positive results,” Cong Phuong affirmed.
Both Vietnam and Malaysia won their opening matches and are highly regarded in this group, so the match between the two teams is of great significance for the top spot in the group. According to the tournament rules, only the top team can qualify for the finals, so both teams are putting their “firepower” into this match.
Coach Kim Sang-sik's team will have 2 weeks of training and travel to Malaysia. This period of time is enough for coach Kim Sang-sik to convey and train his players about changes and improvements in tactics./.