Thai media: 'Not Brazil, this is the Vietnam national team'

Thai media recently paid special attention to Vietnam's national team training camp in March 2026, notably highlighting the presence of two Brazilian-origin players – Do Hoang Hen and Nguyen Xuan Son.

Images and information from Vietnam's training session quickly spread, attracting attention from regional fans. The MrFootball AEC page wrote: "This is not a Brazil national team training session, but a Vietnam national team training session."

“The two naturalized Brazilian players, 'Rafaelson' and 'Henrio', have joined forces, training in the Vietnam national team jersey. Both are actively preparing for matches against Bangladesh and Malaysia in the upcoming FIFA Days in March.."

In reality, during this gathering, the Vietnam national team welcomed the notable newcomer Do Hoang Hen, a Brazilian-origin player called up for the first time. He quickly became a media focal point not only domestically but also regionally.

On the afternoon of March 21, the earliest group of players to assemble included many familiar faces such as Tran Trung Kien, Nguyen Xuan Son, Do Duy Manh, Pham Xuan Manh, Nguyen Hai Long, Pham Tuan Hai… Among them, Hoang Hen's appearance received special attention from the media.

Sharing his feelings on his first day with the national team, the 1995-born midfielder couldn't hide his emotions: he expressed pride in wearing the Vietnam national team jersey for the first time, while affirming he would strive wholeheartedly to contribute. Hoang Hen also revealed he received encouragement from coach Kim Sang-sik, advising him to play confidently and showcase his best ability.

Additionally, this player quickly integrated with teammates, especially familiar ones from his club like Duy Manh, Hai Long, Tuan Hai, and Xuan Son, who had played alongside him for extended periods at Binh Dinh and Nam Dinh. This connection is expected to help the Vietnam national team increase its strength in the crucial upcoming phase.

By the afternoon of March 22, the team entered its second training session of the gathering. Despite not having the full squad, coach Kim Sang-sik implemented a suitable plan, dividing groups for recovery and tactical training to ensure fitness and cohesion for the whole team. Notably, Xuan Son only did light training due to fitness issues, while other key players are gradually reaching their best condition.

Furthermore, the team also welcomed additional players from Ninh Binh FC and will continue to complete the squad in the coming days. Players from Hanoi Police Club are expected to join on March 23.

According to the plan, the Vietnam national team will continue to complete its squad in the coming days, before entering the friendly match against Bangladesh at Hang Day Stadium on March 26. This will be an important preparatory step for coach Kim Sang-sik and his team towards the rematch with Malaysia in the final qualifying round for the 2027 Asian Cup.