If he maintains his current form, Nham Manh Dung could become a key option for coach Kim Sang Sik to fill the position left vacant by Nguyen Xuan Son on the Vietnam national football team.

A standout performance in V-League

In the 10th round of the LPBank V-League at Thien Truong Stadium, Nham Manh Dung scored the only goal, securing a crucial 3-point victory for Viettel FC against Thep Xanh Nam Dinh. This win propelled Viettel to third place in the league standings.

Coming off the bench as usual, Manh Dung delivered a decisive moment in the 64th minute. He headed in a precise cross from Duc Chien on the right wing, placing the ball into the far corner and leaving Thep Xanh Nam Dinh goalkeeper Nguyen Manh helpless.

Rekindling memories of SEA Games glory

Manh Dung’s goal sparked memories of his historic header in the SEA Games 31 final, where he secured a gold medal for Vietnam’s U23 team with a victory over Thailand.

This timely performance comes as coach Kim Sang Sik searches for a replacement for Nguyen Xuan Son, who is sidelined with an injury.

Impressively, Manh Dung has shone in back-to-back matches. Prior to his goal against Nam Dinh, the Thai Binh-born striker sealed a 2-0 victory for Viettel against PVF-CAND, earning the team a spot in the quarterfinals of the National Cup.

A promising candidate for the national team

With a height of 1.80 meters, strong physical presence, and excellent aerial abilities, Manh Dung has the attributes of a versatile forward. His ability to operate independently and find space makes him a worthy candidate for the national team.

However, despite his heroics at SEA Games 31, Manh Dung has struggled to secure a consistent role in the senior squad due to fluctuating form. Now, with a string of solid performances, he aims to seize the opportunity to impress coach Kim Sang Sik.

Compared to Thanh Binh, who had an underwhelming performance at the recent ASEAN Cup, Manh Dung offers more promising qualities. The ultimate question is whether the 25-year-old forward aligns with Kim Sang Sik’s tactical system and playing style - a question only time will answer.

Dai Nam