Xuan Son scores on his comeback as Vietnam defeat Laos in Vientiane

Nguyen Xuan Son delivered the perfect comeback as he scored an important goal to help Vietnam claim a 2–0 win over Laos in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign. In the final international match of the year, Vietnam entered the National Stadium of Laos with a strong starting lineup. Head coach Kim Sang-sik trusted Dang Van Lam in goal, protected by the back-three of Xuan Manh, Duy Manh and Tien Dung. One of the biggest surprises was the selection of Le Van Do on the right flank while Truong Tien Anh moved to the bench. Kim seemingly wanted to maximize Van Do’s chemistry with Quang Hai – who played as a right-sided forward – given their connection at Hanoi Police FC.

In midfield, Hoang Duc paired with Thanh Long, signaling Vietnam’s intention to dominate possession and impose their attacking style. Cao Pendant Quang Vinh was also instructed to push high and occasionally move inside to support defensive transitions when needed. In attack, Tien Linh led the line, supported by Van Vi operating as the left-sided forward. The setup showed the coaching staff’s clear plan: dominate possession and pursue a convincing victory after the 5–0 win in the reverse fixture.

Vietnam controlled most of the first half and played largely inside the opponent’s half. However, the slippery and uneven pitch made combination play difficult. Laos played with high determination, pressed aggressively, and relied on sharp long-ball counters to threaten. Despite creating multiple chances, Vietnam could not find the opening goal before halftime.

Coach Kim made an immediate adjustment at the start of the second half, bringing in Xuan Son to increase attacking firepower. Tuan Hai, Gia Hung and Hai Long also entered, receiving constant supply from the midfield duo of Quang Hai and Hoang Duc, who dictated the tempo. This wave of pressure finally paid off when a Laos defender handled the ball after a burst of pace from Tuan Hai. On the penalty spot, Xuan Son fired a powerful shot into the net in the 68th minute, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

The goal completely shifted the momentum. Vietnam played with greater freedom, especially with the refreshed attacking line, while Laos began showing signs of fatigue, with several players repeatedly going down with cramps. In the final minutes, Vietnam pushed for a second goal, but Laos showed tremendous fighting spirit. Despite physical struggles and injuries, the hosts refused to give up and kept searching for an equalizer.

Their resilience was eventually punished by a stunning moment of brilliance. From a loose ball inside the area, Tuan Hai produced a superb acrobatic volley to seal a 2–0 victory. Earlier, he had also earned the penalty that Xuan Son converted, capping off an excellent personal performance.

The 2–0 win wrapped up Vietnam’s final preparations ahead of the penultimate phase of the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. With Xuan Son now fully back and scoring on his return, coach Kim Sang-sik will carry renewed confidence into the decisive showdown against Malaysia next March, where a ticket to the Asian Cup finals may be on the line.