Xuan Son's return is a lifeline for the Vietnamese national team's attack.
The Vietnamese national team has scored 9 goals in 4 matches, but the strikers have only scored 1. Xuan Son returns after nearly 10 months out with injury, expected to improve the team's firepower in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.
Given that the Vietnamese national team's strikers have only scored one goal in four matches of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, Xuan Son's recall in November is a significant development. Despite only recently recovering from nearly 10 months of injury, the naturalized striker is expected to help the team solve its goal-scoring problem in this crucial stage.
The effect of the 1-0 victory against Nepal.
In matchday 4, the Vietnamese national team defeated Nepal 1-0. The three points came from an own goal by the opponent, thus not reflecting any improvement in the attack. Against a much weaker opponent, the "Golden Dragons'" forwards still struggled to finish their chances.
The numbers speak for themselves: 9 goals in 4 matches, but the striker only contributed 1.
After 4 matches, the Vietnamese national team has scored a total of 9 goals – a respectable number – but contributions from the forward position have been very limited. The only center forward to score so far is Tien Linh (1 goal).
The top scorer is a defender: Van Vi with 3 goals. The remaining players, including Hai Long, Xuan Manh, Tien Linh, Quang Hai, and Chau Ngoc Quang, each have 1 goal. This shows that the problem of finding a clear goalscorer remains unresolved.
Xuan Son returns and expectations are high.
Coach Kim Sang Sik's decision to recall Xuan Son is clear. Even if he doesn't play many minutes, his presence is still necessary to help him rediscover his rhythm with his teammates and rekindle his inspiration after a long period of injury recovery. Given the current scoring form of the forwards, having another key striker who can capitalize on opportunities is exactly what the team needs.
Furthermore, even when not at his best, Xuan Son's presence creates a competitive edge, forcing other strikers to strive to perform.
The final qualifying round and the points game.
The Vietnamese national team has two matches remaining in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers and needs to secure maximum points. In March, they will face Malaysia in the final match. Before hoping for a bye win against Malaysia, the immediate goal is to maximize their chances in the remaining matches, thereby maintaining the upper hand in the race.
Summon at the right time.
Returning to the national team in November gives Xuan Son time to get used to the pace of international competition, instead of rushing things at the final stages. This is important for a player who has just spent nearly 10 months sidelined, and for a team that is currently struggling with finishing issues.
Reaction and significance
The Seasia Goal fanpage posted a congratulatory message to Xuan Son on his return to the Vietnamese national team after a long period of injury recovery. Domestically, the addition of a naturalized striker, which meets current needs, is seen as a positive sign for the attack.
The Vietnamese national team needs a player who can score when needed. From now until March, Xuan Son's presence provides more personnel options and an opportunity to improve the quality of finishing – a factor that could determine the outcome in the final stages of the season.
