Coach Popov points out the best 1-on-1 player in Vietnam

Coach Popov considers midfielder Nguyễn Hai Long as the top player in one-on-one scenarios in Vietnam.

After the 1-1 draw against Hà Nội in the V-League, Coach Popov praised Hà Nội FC, expressing satisfaction with the point earned.

"Hà Nội played more aggressively. Even if they are not the best team in the V-League, they must be among the top three. The recent match was very challenging, and I think earning one point against Hà Nội is well deserved,"Coach Velizar Popov shared.

Notably, the Bulgarian strategist especially praised Hai Long, stating that this midfielder is currently the best 1-on-1 player in Vietnam.

"Hà Nội is always a quality team with many outstanding individuals. We all see that Hai Long is a player exceptional, in one-on-one situations, no one can get past him. This is a very valuable trait that not many possess in Vietnam,"Coach Popov commented on the Hà Nội midfielder.

The year 2025 has witnessed remarkable growth from midfielder Nguyễn Hai Long, one of the brightest talents in Vietnamese football today. His first major highlight was his outstanding performance at the 2024 AFF Cup, where he played a key role in Vietnam’s championship run by scoring two crucial goals. His confidence and composure in high-pressure matches have left a strong impression on both fans and experts alike.

His brilliant form has continued. In March, Hai Long scored against Cambodia before shining with a goal and an assist in the match against Laos, solidifying his role as a key figure in the national team’s midfield. Beyond the national squad, at Hà Nội FC, Hai Long has gained increasing trust, earning more starts and becoming an essential part of the capital club’s playing style.

Hai Long’s standout strengths include his skillful dribbling, creative thinking, and versatile finishing ability with both feet. These qualities make him a constant threat to any defense. With comprehensive development and consistent performance, Hai Long is showing that he could become the new playmaker of Vietnamese football in the near future.

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