Too awesome, the 'workhorse' strongest U23 Vietnam player called directly to the national team

Two Hai Phong Club players summoned to the Vietnam national team, including a standout figure after impressive performances with U23 Vietnam.

The summoning of two Hai Phong Club players to the Vietnam national team during the March gathering is attracting significant attention. Goalkeeper Nguyen Dinh Trieu and defender Nguyen Nhat Minh are given the opportunity to join the preparation list for upcoming international matches, marking a notable step forward for the Port city club in contributing personnel to the national team.

Among them, the most attention-grabbing name is center-back Nguyen Nhat Minh. After a memorable season with U23 Vietnam at the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup, the 2003-born player has been directly called up to the national team by coach Kim Sang Sik. This is considered a deserved reward for his stable and resilient performances at the U23 level.

At the recent continental tournament, Nhat Minh became one of the rare players to complete all 600 minutes in U23 Vietnam's historic bronze medal journey. The Hai Phong Club center-back participated in all 6 matches, including those requiring extra time. His robust stamina and ability to maintain stable form earned him recognition as one of the players with the best physical foundation in U23 Vietnam.

Nhat Minh's most outstanding performance came in the bronze medal match against U23 Korea. Under immense pressure from the opponent with over 30 shots throughout 120 minutes, this center-back repeatedly appeared to rescue the team's goal. He alone executed up to 16 successful clearances, playing a crucial part in helping U23 Vietnam withstand the relentless attacks.

Besides Nhat Minh, goalkeeper Nguyen Dinh Trieu is another representative of Hai Phong Club joining this gathering. Being called up to the national team is an opportunity for the experienced goalkeeper to reaffirm himself in the context where coach Kim Sang Sik is reviewing the squad for important upcoming matches.

According to the plan, the Vietnam national team will gather from March 21 to March 31 within the FIFA Days framework. During this period, coach Kim Sang Sik's team will have a friendly match against Bangladesh before facing Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. This gathering is seen as an important occasion for the coaching staff to test personnel and refine tactical plans for the national team.