With several key players sidelined by injuries, Vietnam head coach Kim Sang-sik turned to three newcomers at the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026: Adou Minh, Ngo Dang Khoa and Williams Minh Hoang.

Making their first appearances for the senior national team, all three players showed determination and gave their best on the pitch. However, their performances varied, and not everyone managed to make a convincing case for a regular place in Kim's squad.

Among the three, Ngo Dang Khoa delivered the least impressive performance.

The midfielder was introduced in the 70th minute against the Philippines but struggled to make an impact. He was subsequently handed his first international start in the third-place playoff against Malaysia.

Playing for Ho Chi Minh City Police FC at club level, Dang Khoa appeared physically disadvantaged in one-on-one challenges and struggled to impose himself on the game.

He offered little creativity in his passing and failed to produce any genuinely threatening shots.

Overall, the midfielder will need to make considerable improvements if he hopes to earn another call-up to the Vietnam national team.

Williams Minh Hoang, meanwhile, made a much stronger impression, scoring his first international goal in Vietnam's 4-2 victory over Pakistan.

Receiving a pass from Nguyen Dinh Bac, the Ho Chi Minh City Police FC forward raced into space before finishing diagonally past the goalkeeper to seal the win.

He also provided an assist for Dinh Bac and featured regularly throughout the tournament, either in the starting lineup or as a substitute.

At just 19 years old, Williams faced considerable pressure as he shared the responsibility of scoring goals with the more experienced Dinh Bac.

Given his age and limited international experience, his overall performance deserves considerable praise.

With more regular playing opportunities in Vietnam's V-League and regional competitions for Ho Chi Minh City Police FC, Williams has the potential to develop into an important player for the national team.

Adou Minh was arguably the standout performer among Vietnam's three newcomers.

Kim Sang-sik immediately placed his trust in the defender, naming him in the starting lineup for Vietnam's opening match against the Philippines.

Adou Minh quickly established himself as a reliable presence in defense thanks to his composed playing style, strong aerial ability and physical strength in one-on-one situations.

Despite receiving his first national team call-up, he adapted remarkably quickly to the demands of international football and Kim's tactical system.

With several of Vietnam's established center-backs struggling with injuries or declining form, Adou Minh has emerged as a promising option for the national team's defensive line.

It would therefore come as little surprise if the Hanoi Police FC defender were recalled for Vietnam's next training camp in November, as the team prepares for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals.

Dai Nam