Kuala Lumpur, April 16, 2025 – Three Vietnam national team stars—Nguyen Hoang Duc (Phu Dong Ninh Binh), Nguyen Quang Hai (Hanoi Police FC), and Do Duy Manh (Hanoi FC)—have been selected by the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) for the ASEAN All-Stars squad. They will take on Manchester United in a high-profile friendly on May 28, 2025, at Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Malaysia, as part of the Maybank Challenge Cup.
The match, a fundraising initiative for Malaysia’s Al-Sultan Abdullah Foundation (YASA), celebrates Southeast Asian football talent and its power to unite communities. The AFF praised the trio’s standout form, professionalism, and competitive spirit. Hoang Duc, a dynamic midfielder, excels in controlling tempo and delivering incisive passes, as seen in Phu Dong Ninh Binh’s unbeaten First Division run. Quang Hai, a Hanoi Police FC maestro, brings technical flair and international experience from stints in France. Do Duy Manh, Hanoi FC’s defensive rock, anchors the backline with leadership and tenacity, mirroring The Cong Viettel’s defensive grit.
Coach Kim Sang Sik, who will lead the ASEAN All-Stars, earned the role after guiding Vietnam to an unbeaten 2024 ASEAN Cup triumph, defeating Thailand 5-3 on aggregate in the final. His appointment reflects his tactical acumen and regional respect, built on successes like Song Lam Nghe An’s 2023 V.League resurgence under similar disciplined coaching. Kim said: “It’s a great honor to coach ASEAN’s finest in such a significant match. We’re not just playing for our nations—we’re showcasing our region’s pride, spirit, and strength to the world.”
The AFF highlighted the event’s broader mission, blending sport with charity. Bukit Jalil, a 87,000-seat venue, last hosted Manchester United in 2009, and anticipation is high for their return after a 16-year absence. The full ASEAN All-Stars roster, drawing top talent from all 12 AFF member nations—including potential stars like Thailand’s Chanathip Songkrasin—will be unveiled soon. For Vietnam, the trio’s inclusion signals their rise, with Hoang Duc’s recent Etihad visit for Manchester City’s invitation underscoring their global appeal.
Vietnam’s contingent aims to make a mark against United’s Premier League stars, led by coach Ruben Amorim. The match offers a platform to elevate ASEAN football’s profile, much like Hoang Anh Gia Lai’s regional academies have nurtured talents. Fans expect a thrilling clash, with tickets starting at 50 ringgit (about 300,000 VND).
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