FIFA features Vietnam's Xuan Son and Quang Hai with football legends

Vietnamese football fans were thrilled when FIFA spotlighted Xuan Son and Quang Hai in a Halloween post alongside legends like Ronaldo, Messi, Mbappe, and Zidane.

The official FIFA World Cup page recently shared a Halloween-themed post with the caption: “Who needs horror when you have these terrifying legends?”

Accompanying the cheeky caption were photos of world-class football icons, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, Ronaldo de Lima, and Zinedine Zidane.

Among the elite, two familiar Vietnamese faces stood out: striker Nguyen Xuan Son and midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai.

FIFA featured an image of Xuan Son pulling his shirt over his face in celebration - a gesture captured during the AFF Cup 2024. The Brazilian-born forward played a crucial role in helping Vietnam clinch the title.

Also highlighted was Quang Hai’s iconic celebration after his stunning goal against U23 Qatar in the semifinals of the AFC U23 Championship 2018, a historic moment that propelled Vietnam to the final.

Sharing the spotlight with football’s biggest names

xuan son messi ronaldo zidane.jpeg — FIFA’s World Cup page highlights Vietnamese players alongside Messi, Ronaldo, and Zidane. Screenshot: FIFA

The appearance of Xuan Son and Quang Hai in the same post as football’s global elite marks a proud moment for Vietnamese fans.

For Xuan Son, it underscores his incredible comeback after a long injury layoff and his vital contribution to Vietnam’s recent regional triumph.

Quang Hai’s inclusion reaffirms his status as one of Vietnam’s most iconic players. His goal against U23 Qatar remains etched in Asian football history and symbolizes the rise of Vietnam on the continental stage.

Even more noteworthy is the context: FIFA’s social media team chose to feature Vietnamese players among legends of the game in a global post, on a day that celebrates memorable and "scary good" moments in football.

Xuan Son, who had previously suffered a ten-month injury spell, made a remarkable return to form and was instrumental in Vietnam’s AFF Cup 2024 victory.

Meanwhile, Quang Hai continues to be a symbol of Vietnamese football brilliance, inspiring the next generation with his achievements.

Both players now stand shoulder to shoulder with legends in the global football conversation, marking an extraordinary milestone not just for their careers but for Vietnam’s growing presence in international football.