“I’m truly happy to be here. I’m excited to train and play with my teammates. I’m very thrilled,” said Quang Vinh, sharing his feelings on his first day with the national team.

“I found out I was selected while at the airport with Nguyen Filip. He told me, ‘You’re on the list, congratulations!’ I asked, ‘Really? Show me!’ and I was so overjoyed.”

“I took a lot of photos to send to my family. When I learned I would wear jersey number 13, I was really happy. My mother was incredibly proud and even cried. She told me to give it my all, to do everything for the country. It's only 10 days, but I’m confident I can adapt quickly and will try my best,” he added.

Reflecting on the team atmosphere compared to his club CAHN, Quang Vinh said: “Everyone is very friendly. The mood is cheerful and welcoming. It feels like being part of a family.”

Speaking about head coach Kim Sang Sik, he shared: “He’s a good and kind coach. He came to me and asked how I was feeling, which made me think highly of him. He also asked if I was tired since I had just played a few days ago. He told me to rest because we need to be in our best condition during this training period.”

Regarding the potential face-off with Malaysia’s Dion Cools - who plays for Buriram United and competed in the ASEAN Club Championship 2024/25 final - Quang Vinh commented: “He’s a talented player with great defensive skills. If I play, it’ll be an exciting matchup. If Van Vy starts, the match will be thrilling as well.”

Dai Nam