The injury of Xuan Son during the 2024 ASEAN Cup final has sidelined the naturalized striker for an extended period, unexpectedly intensifying the race for the V-League 2024/25 Golden Boot.

Xuan Son misses chance to make history

Xuan Son suffered his injury during the first half of the second leg of the 2024 ASEAN Cup final against Thailand. This setback not only ended his international run with the Vietnamese national team but also ruled him out of defending his V-League title with Thép Xanh Nam Định.

The injury cost Xuan Son the opportunity to make history as only the fourth player in Vietnam’s top-flight professional football league to win back-to-back Golden Boot titles.

If not for this misfortune, Xuan Son stood a strong chance of joining the ranks of legendary strikers Almeida, Hoang Vu Samson, and Do Merlo.

Having shattered the V-League single-season scoring record in 2024, Xuan Son had already netted 7 goals in 9 matches this season, placing him among the top three scorers before his injury.

A revitalized Golden Boot race

While Xuan Son’s absence is lamentable, it has opened the door for a more competitive race for the V-League 2024/25 Golden Boot.

If Xuan Son and the formidable Thép Xanh Nam Định squad had remained in contention, the competition for the prestigious individual accolade might have been far less intense.

Now, the likes of Leo Artur (CAHN), Tien Linh (Binh Duong), and Lucao (Hai Phong), among others, find themselves with clearer paths to claim the title.

A thrilling new rivalry

The Golden Boot race is shaping up to be as captivating as the championship battle itself. The leading candidates are closely matched in terms of form, team support, and individual capabilities.

Players like Tien Linh, who has displayed remarkable consistency, and Leo Artur, with his technical flair, are bolstered by strong teammates, while Lucao’s ability to deliver under pressure adds another layer of excitement.

The outcome of this race remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the added drama of the Golden Boot rivalry promises to make this V-League season even more thrilling for fans.

Duy Nguyen