Xuân Son: From a header that defeated Malaysia to the dream of lifting the trophy with the Vietnam national team

Shining with the opening goal in Vietnam's 2-0 victory over Malaysia in the first leg of the ASEAN Championship 2026 semifinals, Nguyễn Xuân Son continues to demonstrate the value of a top striker. For this forward, goals are only meaningful when they help the team get closer to the championship trophy.

Xuân Son was voted Man of the Match after his outstanding performance away from home. He not only broke the deadlock but also worked tirelessly, constantly putting pressure on the Malaysian defense in a physically demanding and challenging match.

According to Xuân Son, the 2-0 victory was the result of collective effort, given that Vietnam had to play under heavy pressure from the hosts.

"I completely agree with Coach Kim. Today was really a tough match for us. However, the whole team played well and most importantly, we got the win. I want to thank the Vietnamese fans who came to the stadium to support the team today. The passionate atmosphere of the fans was amazing. I am truly happy to win and bring it back to Vietnam," Xuân Son shared.

For most of the first half, the Vietnamese striker was closely marked by Malaysian defenders and had little space. The pitch conditions also required him time to adapt. However, Xuân Son showed the qualities of a pure center forward at the right moment.

"To be honest, the early part of the match was a bit difficult. I had to get used to the pitch conditions, which were slightly different. But as a center forward, I am always ready. Sometimes I only need one ball," Xuân Son said.

And that opportunity came in the final minutes of the first half. From a precise delivery into the box, Xuân Son positioned himself well and finished to open the scoring for Vietnam.

"In the final minute of the first half, my teammate made a very accurate cross. That was the chance I needed to score. Inside the box is my biggest strength. Whenever the ball comes into the box, I can score many goals. I am really happy and delighted," he shared.

The goal against Malaysia extends Xuân Son's impressive record with the Vietnam national team. However, the striker affirmed that he is not too concerned with personal milestones.

"About the record, I actually didn't know. Thank you for letting me know this information. I feel extremely happy. Scoring and helping the team win has always been my dream. Wearing the national team jersey and contributing every day is my biggest goal," Xuân Son said.

After his performance, Xuân Son did not hide his and his teammates' biggest goal at the ASEAN Championship 2026.

"I just want to maintain this form to give more motivation to the whole team towards the ultimate goal: lifting the championship trophy," the Vietnam striker emphasized.

The match in Kuala Lumpur was also a significant physical test for Xuân Son, as he had to constantly battle, sprint behind the Malaysian defense, and directly face well-built defenders.

"I really like matches like this because they bring out my physique and fitness. My teammates also supported me a lot. I think the second leg in Hanoi will be no less intense. But Coach Kim and the coaching staff will prepare the team very thoroughly," Xuân Son said.

The 2-0 away victory gives Vietnam a significant advantage ahead of the second leg of the semifinal. However, for Xuân Son and his teammates, the job is not yet done.

Ahead are 90 minutes at Mỹ Đình, where Vietnam needs to maintain focus to protect the result, secure a place in the final, and take another step toward the goal that Xuân Son calls "the dream": lifting the championship trophy with the Vietnam national team at home.