Vietnamese defender Ho Tan Tai has been forced to withdraw from the ASEAN Cup 2024 following a severe injury sustained during Vietnam’s 3-1 victory over Singapore in the semifinal second leg on December 29. This unfortunate development comes as a major blow to both the player and the national team ahead of the final.
On the morning of December 30, Vietnam’s medical team took Tan Tai to a hospital in Viet Tri, Phu Tho, for an MRI scan to assess the extent of his injury. By noon, the 26-year-old had returned to the team hotel with his right knee immobilized and requiring crutches to move with great difficulty.
“I feel pain in my leg, but the headache is worse,” Tan Tai joked when asked about his condition. According to the MRI results, he has sustained a bruised anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. Fortunately, the injury does not require surgery, but it will sideline him for approximately six to eight weeks as he undergoes recovery and rehabilitation.
The injury officially rules Tan Tai out of the two-legged ASEAN Cup final, marking a disappointing end to the tournament for the defender from Binh Dinh. His absence adds to Vietnam’s injury woes, as head coach Kim Sang-sik is already grappling with a depleted squad. Forward Van Toan is unavailable for similar reasons, while defenders Van Thanh and Xuan Manh are also dealing with injuries that leave their participation in the first leg of the final in doubt.
Tan Tai’s injury occurred in the closing minutes of the semifinal second leg against Singapore. While waiting for a cross from Van Vi on the left flank, the Binh Duong FC defender fell awkwardly while attempting to control the ball. He collapsed in visible pain, prompting Vietnam’s medical staff to rush onto the pitch. After receiving initial treatment, Tan Tai was stretchered off and could not continue the match.
His absence represents a significant loss for Vietnam, as Tan Tai has been a key figure in the team’s defensive setup throughout the tournament. With the final approaching, Coach Kim faces a challenging task in reshuffling his lineup to address the gaps left by multiple injuries.
Vietnam is set to play the first leg of the final at home on January 2, 2025, followed by the second leg away on January 5. Despite these setbacks, the team remains determined to deliver a strong performance and secure their third ASEAN Cup title. Fans will undoubtedly rally behind the squad as they prepare for the final showdown.
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