In the early afternoon of May 29, Cong Phuong arrived at the national team’s headquarters in Hanoi. The Binh Phuoc FC striker came alone, dressed simply in a shirt and sneakers.

His arrival immediately drew attention, surrounded by media and fans. At the hotel check-in counter, the 30-year-old forward reunited with central defender Thanh Chung. The two exchanged greetings and asked about each other’s health before heading to their rooms.

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Cong Phuong returns to Vietnam’s national team after nearly two years. Photo: T.C

After nearly two years of absence, striker Nguyen Cong Phuong has returned to Vietnam’s national football team as they prepare for a decisive match against Malaysia.

The last time Cong Phuong played for the national team was in September 2023, in a friendly match against Palestine at Thien Truong Stadium.

Despite scoring under coach Philippe Troussier’s guidance, he was still criticized by the French tactician.

Following that match, the Nghe An-born striker was absent from the national lineup for almost two years. His return this season came thanks to an impressive performance at Binh Phuoc FC, combined with the absence of other key forwards such as Xuan Son, Vi Hao, and Van Toan due to injury. Coach Kim Sang Sik decided to bring him back into the squad.

Before joining the team, Cong Phuong had scored seven goals in Vietnam’s First Division. Including his performance in the National Cup, he totaled nine goals.

With strong form, especially in set-piece situations, the 30-year-old is expected to resolve the national team’s scoring challenges in the upcoming clash against Malaysia on June 10.

According to the schedule, following the friendly match with Manchester United FC, Coach Kim Sang Sik and four players - Duy Manh, Van Vi, Hai Long, and Hoang Duc - joined the national team on May 29.

On May 30, the team will begin training in Hanoi for the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers against Malaysia.

Dai Nam