Yancheng – Two overseas Vietnamese players, Viktor Le and Andrej Nguyen An Khanh, experienced starkly different journeys at the CFA Team China 2025 friendly tournament in Jiangsu, China, despite both being named to the U22 Vietnam squad.
While Viktor Le emerged as a standout performer, Andrej Nguyen An Khanh struggled to make an impact, highlighting the varied paths of Vietnam’s diaspora talents under Coach Dinh Hong Vinh as they prepare for a packed 2025, including SEA Games 33 and the U23 Asian Cup qualifiers.
Viktor Le’s Breakout Tournament
Viktor Le, a Russian-Vietnamese midfielder born in 2003, arrived with high expectations after a string of impressive V-League displays for Ha Tinh FC. He didn’t disappoint, earning the trust of Coach Vinh and starting all three matches against South Korea, Uzbekistan, and China, logging near-full minutes each time. The 1.80-meter playmaker thrived as an attacking midfielder, bridging Vietnam’s offense and defense with flair and tenacity.
Le’s influence was undeniable in Vietnam’s two goals across the tournament. In the 1-1 draw with China, he delivered a pinpoint assist for Nguyen Quoc Viet’s opener, showcasing his vision. Against South Korea (also 1-1), his pressure forced a defensive error, teeing up Nguyen Thanh Nhan’s strike. Though Vietnam settled for three draws—finishing second behind China—Le’s debut international outing was a resounding success. “He’s been exceptional,” a team insider said. “For a first call-up, he’s set a high bar.” His versatility and impact signal a bright future as U22 Vietnam builds toward major competitions.
Andrej Nguyen An Khanh’s Uphill Battle
In contrast, Andrej Nguyen An Khanh’s tournament was a tale of frustration. The Czech-Vietnamese prospect, born in 2003, joined the squad a day late due to commitments in the Czech Republic’s fourth-tier league, where he’d been in fine form, scoring and playing regularly. However, at Jiangsu, he found no minutes. Registered as a substitute in just two games—against South Korea and Uzbekistan—he was omitted entirely from the final matchday squad against China, watching Vietnam’s 1-1 draw from the sidelines.
Khanh’s lack of action reflects integration challenges. Despite prior U22 call-ups, he’s yet to feature in a competitive match, raising questions about his fit within Vinh’s system. “He’s got talent, but he’s not clicking yet,” a source noted. With 2025 promising key tournaments, Khanh faces a steep climb to secure a regular role, needing to adapt quickly to Vietnam’s pace and cohesion after thriving in Czech football’s lower ranks.
Looking Ahead
Viktor Le’s star turn contrasts sharply with Andrej Nguyen An Khanh’s quiet stint, underscoring the highs and lows of tapping overseas talent. As U22 Vietnam eyes regional dominance, Le’s emergence bolsters their attack, while Khanh’s next steps will test his resilience.
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