Thai media are wary of Vietnam's 'new weapon' Do Hoang Hen.
Ball Thai newspaper commented that the inclusion of naturalized midfielder Do Hoang Hen (Hendrio) in coach Kim Sang-sik's squad is a strategic and versatile move by the Vietnamese national team.
The first call-up of naturalized midfielder Do Hoang Hen to the Vietnamese national team during the FIFA Days in March 2026 has generated strong interest from regional media, especially in Thailand. Ball Thai newspaper assessed the presence of the Brazilian-born player as a "new weapon" that would significantly strengthen coach Kim Sang-sik's squad.
Caution from the Thai media
Immediately after the official list of players called up for the March 2026 training camp was revealed, Ball Thai devoted considerable space to analyzing the new recruit of the "Golden Star Warriors". According to the newspaper, the milestone of Hendrio Araujo da Silva (Vietnamese name: Do Hoang Hen) wearing the Vietnamese national team jersey is not only historically significant but also a strong warning to rivals in the region.
Thai media outlets believe this is a carefully calculated move aimed at diversifying playing styles and increasing squad depth. The 31-year-old midfielder's skillful individual technique and ability to control the game are predicted to bring breakthroughs to the tactical system of the South Korean strategist.
Impressive statistics for the new 'conductor'.
Coach Kim Sang-sik's decision to give Do Hoang Hen a chance stems from his explosive form in the domestic league while playing for Hanoi FC. Statistics show that the midfielder has contributed to 10 goals this season, including 6 goals and 4 assists.
With his creativity and extensive experience, Hoang Hen is expected to become the "key" to unlocking versatile attacking options. This is especially important in the context of the Vietnamese national team needing to reinvent itself before important challenges in the continental arena.
The test route in the Asian Cup Qualifiers
According to the plan, the Vietnamese national team will assemble its squad and finalize its personnel in the coming days. The friendly match against Bangladesh is considered the most important test for Do Hoang Hen to prove his ability to integrate and work well with his new teammates.
Overall, this is a crucial warm-up before coach Kim Sang-sik's team faces Malaysia again in the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers. The addition of Do Hoang Hen promises to bring new energy, helping the Vietnamese national team confidently aim for a favorable result against their direct regional rival.