Huỳnh Như has new teammates, ready to compete in the Asian quarterfinals

Before facing Naegohyang FC in the AFC Women's Champions League 2025/26 quarterfinals, Ho Chi Minh City Women's Club surprised many by strengthening with foreign players from Brazil and Jamaica.

Ho Chi Minh City Women's Club is entering a "major gamble." This time, Coach Kim Chi's team has been more aggressive in acquiring high-quality foreign players.

Among them,new signing Joelmafrom Brazil is a player attracting much attention. She is a name who has played in Brazil's top league. Joelma not only possesses the refined individual technique characteristic of Brazilian football but also has excellent positioning and finishing ability.

Additionally, new signing Alicia Groves from Jamaica is also known for her speed and strength, capable of playing in various attacking positions.

On the eve of the AFC Women's Champions League 2025-2026 quarterfinal match against Naegohyang FC from North Korea, Vietnam's women's football representative openly displayed ambition by aggressively recruiting foreign players.

Previously, the team ofCoach Kim Chihad already acquired up to six foreign players for the group stage in October 2025. Notable players included the 1.80m tall center-back Aubrey Goodwill, creative midfielder Sakura Yoshida from Japan, defender Tatiana Mason (USA), and Ouni Samia (Tunisia). Earlier this year, Ho Chi Minh City Club also added defender Thu Xuân. This is a player who can compete in both 11-a-side football and futsal.

However, the challenge ahead is of a very high caliber. Naegohyang FC possesses many North Korean national team players, not only being North Korean champions but also representing a women's football program among Asia's top, even at a world-class level.

North Korean players are renowned for their robust physical foundation, near-absolute tactical discipline, and powerful style of play. Ho Chi Minh City Women's Club will play on a neutral ground in Laos.

Fans still vividly remember the "unbelievable" comeback against Abu Dhabi Country last season, from trailing 0-3 to winning 4-3. That was not just a victory, but proof of the "never give up" spirit of Coach Kim Chi and her players.

Ho Chi Minh City Women's Club will face Naegohyang FC at 15:00 on March 28, 2026, at the Laos National Stadium (Vientiane Capital) in the AFC Women's Champions League 2025/26 quarterfinals.