Following the conclusion of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, Hoang Hen and Tai Loc underwent medical examinations to assess their injuries. Both had previously been ruled out of Vietnam’s third-place playoff against Malaysia
Medical results showed that Tai Loc is suffering from inflammation at the attachment of the anterior talofibular ligament in his ankle and is expected to need around three weeks to recover
Meanwhile, Hoang Hen has sustained a tear in his left calf muscle and will require at least one month before he can resume training
However, the midfielder also has a pre-existing knee injury, which is expected to prolong his treatment and recovery. His condition will continue to be monitored and assessed to determine an appropriate treatment plan
The biggest concern involves striker Nguyen Xuan Son, who suffered an injury to the muscles at the back of his thigh during Vietnam’s match against the Philippines on September 26
Medical assessments indicate that Xuan Son will need approximately eight weeks to recover. He is currently undergoing treatment at his club, Thep Xanh Nam Dinh, where he can better manage his daily routine and rehabilitation
The lengthy recovery period makes it unlikely that Xuan Son will be able to join the Vietnam national team during the FIFA international window in November
More importantly, the striker now faces a race against time to regain full fitness ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, scheduled for January
If the Nam Dinh forward fails to recover in time, his absence would represent a major blow to Vietnam’s attacking options
Hoang Hen and Tai Loc, meanwhile, could still be available for the continental tournament. However, both will need to complete their recovery and quickly regain match fitness and form to be ready for national team selection
Dai Nam
