Hai Long: The Rise of Vietnam's International Football Talent
In the competitive landscape of Southeast Asian football, few players have shown as much steady progression as Hai Long. From his early days in the youth ranks to becoming a presence in the senior national squad, Hai Long has carved out a path defined by patience and timely contributions on the international stage.
Early Beginnings and Youth Development
Hai Long's journey into the international spotlight began in 2020. He was recognized by the renowned coach Park Hang-seo, who called him up to the Vietnam U22 squad. This period served as a critical bridge, allowing him to adapt to the rigors of international competition and the tactical demands of the national team setup.
Transition to the Senior National Team
The transition to the senior level happened quickly following his youth experience. In May 2021, Hai Long received his first official call-up to the Vietnam national team. He officially made his international debut on June 1, 2021, appearing in a friendly match against Jordan.
As his reputation grew, he became a consideration for major continental tournaments. In December 2023, he was named in the preliminary squad for the AFC Asian Cup (the primary association football competition for senior men's national teams in Asia). While he was successfully included in the final 26-man squad, he did not see any playing time during the tournament.
Breakthrough in the ASEAN Championship
The 2024 ASEAN Championship marked a significant turning point in Hai Long's career, as he transitioned from a squad member to a goal-scorer. On December 9, 2024, he netted his first international goal in a match against Laos.
He further cemented his place in the tournament's history during the second leg of the finals. Hai Long scored the final goal of the entire tournament, finding the back of an empty net against Thailand.
Key Facts
- First Youth Call-up: 2020 (Vietnam U22 under Park Hang-seo).
- Senior Debut: June 1, 2021, against Jordan.
- Major Tournament Experience: Member of the 26-man squad for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.
- First International Goal: Scored against Laos on December 9, 2024.
- Tournament Milestone: Scored the final goal of the 2024 ASEAN Championship against Thailand.
| Year | Event/Milestone | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Vietnam U22 Call-up | Selected by Park Hang-seo |
| 2021 | Senior Debut | Friendly match vs Jordan |
| 2023 | AFC Asian Cup | Included in final 26-man squad |
| 2024 | First International Goal | Match vs Laos (ASEAN Championship) |
| 2024 | Final Tournament Goal | Match vs Thailand (ASEAN Championship) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Hai Long make his senior international debut?
Hai Long made his senior debut for the Vietnam national team on June 1, 2021, in a friendly match against Jordan.
Who was the coach that first called Hai Long to the U22 squad?
He was called up to the Vietnam U22 squad in 2020 by coach Park Hang-seo.
Did Hai Long play in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup?
Although he was included in the final 26-man squad for the tournament, he did not make any appearances during the event.
Against which team did Hai Long score his first international goal?
Hai Long scored his first international goal against Laos on December 9, 2024, during the ASEAN Championship.
What was Hai Long's notable achievement in the 2024 ASEAN Championship finals?
He scored the final goal of the tournament during the second leg of the finals against Thailand.