FIFA: 'Van Hau is the most promising star in Asia'

On August 7, the World Football Federation (FIFA) had a private interview with defender Doan Van Hau of the Vietnamese team. The article "Breakthrough star Hau aims high as Vietnam seek to stun the World" is honored to be placed in the most prominent position on the FIFA homepage.

FIFA wrote: " Three-time Youth Player of the Year in Vietnam, 2018 AFF Championship winner, 2018 AFC U-23 Championship silver medal, participant in nation’s groundbreaking 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign and quarter-finalist at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. It is quite a résumé for 21-year-old Vietnamese defender Doan Van Hau, who is being hailed as one of Asia’s most promising stars.

Hau received his national team call-up when Korea Republic coach Park Hangseo was appointed Vietnam in 2017. Hau made rapid progress securing a regular place with the senior side and notably, he has played a key role at the back as Vietnam remained undefeated in Asia's ongoing second qualifying round for Qatar 2022.

With 3 wins and two draws, Vietnam was surprising when leading in a group with regional rivals Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates. With the remaining three matches, Van Hau and his teammates hope to continue to hold the top spot to win tickets to the final qualifier for the first time.

Van Hau shared with FIFA: "we are in the driving seat in this group and have some sort of advantage,” said Hau. “However, nothing can be taken for granted and in football anything can happen.”

"These three matches are important for us. We have to do our utmost to earn maximum points and to secure a place in the next round. I believe we can make it.

“Not only me, but every player wants to qualify for the World Cup. I will do my best to help my team and I believe that we can pull off further surprises. Do what you can and believe in yourself. Nothing is impossible.”

The 'Golden Dragon' will enter the final stage of the 2022 World Cup Qualifier in October and November. According to the schedule, Vietnam will meet Malaysia on October 13. Then, respectively, to meet Indonesia (November 12) and the UAE (November 17).