Following his outstanding performance at the Shopee Cup 2024/2025, Phan Van Duc has earned a recall to the Vietnam national football team. The latest updates indicate that Van Duc will replace Nguyen Van Toan in the squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Thailand and Russia, scheduled for September 2024. Van Toan is yet to fully recover from an ankle injury, prompting head coach Kim Sang Sik to give Van Duc the opportunity to prove himself once again.
Van Duc had been sidelined from the national team for an extended period due to a ligament injury he sustained in April 2023. Towards the end of last season, he was given ample playing time to regain his match fitness and sharpness. With the V-League yet to start, Van Duc seized the chance to impress by featuring prominently in the ASEAN Club Championship (Shopee Cup 2024/2025).
In a recent match, Van Duc scored the opening goal that set the tone for a 2-1 victory for Hanoi Police FC over Buriram United. His performance in this high-stakes encounter not only showcased his return to form but also caught the attention of the national team’s coaching staff.
Following his goal against Buriram United, Van Duc expressed his eagerness to return to the national team setup. He stated, “Seeing my teammates called up to the national team made me feel a bit down, but I used it as motivation to work harder in training and matches to earn my place back.”
Head coach Kim Sang Sik has been actively monitoring players’ performances in both friendly and official V-League matches to assess their form and readiness. The Korean tactician was reportedly present in the stands during the match between Hanoi Police FC and Buriram United, where Van Duc made his mark.
The upcoming friendly matches against Russia on September 5 and Thailand on September 10 will provide valuable preparation for Kim Sang Sik and his squad as they gear up for the ASEAN Cup 2024. These games will offer the players a chance to refine their strategies and strengthen team cohesion ahead of the prestigious regional tournament.
Van Duc’s return to the national team is seen as a positive development, bringing both experience and attacking prowess back to the squad. His ability to make an impact in crucial moments will be vital as Vietnam aims to compete at the highest level and challenge for titles in regional competitions. With his recent form and renewed determination, Van Duc will be looking to make the most of this opportunity and cement his place in the team ahead of the ASEAN Cup 2024.
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