A nearly 1.9m tall Vietnamese-American could be the 'savior' for Vietnam's national team

Vietnamese-American center-back Kyle Colonna, who is 1.89m tall and has stood out playing for Thể Công Viettel, is seen as a potential choice for the Vietnamese national team's defense.

Amid ongoing defensive weaknesses and a loss of solidity in Vietnam's national team backline, Kyle Colonna emerges as a highly promising candidate. The dual American-Vietnamese center-back, currently with Thể Công Viettel, is viewed as a key figure who could restore stability to the defense after a period of decline.

Kyle Colonna began his career in Vietnam in the 2024/2025 season after leaving New Mexico United (USL Championship). Shortly after, he made a strong impression by playing 18 matches for Hà Nội FC in the V.League and National Cup before transferring to Thể Công Viettel. At the military club, the 1.89m center-back became an indispensable pillar, significantly contributing to Viettel’s position among the league leaders.

Colonna’s strengths lie in his aerial ability, sharp situational awareness, and decisive style of play, which enable him to dominate the 16.5-meter area. Against physically strong foreign forwards, this Vietnamese-American defender displays impressive confidence and resilience. Additionally, he can initiate attacks with accurate long passes, a skill increasingly vital in modern football.

Kyle Colonna is regarded as a modern center-back with strong tactical understanding, high discipline, and relentless fighting spirit. He embodies the qualities of a quiet leader who prioritizes the team and maintains consistent performance in every match. Based on his displays, many believe this Vietnamese-origin player fully deserves a chance to represent Vietnam’s national team.

However, the biggest hurdle for Kyle Colonna currently is citizenship, as he has not completed the naturalization process required to be eligible for the national team. Once this barrier is removed, Colonna could become a crucial piece in the head coach’s plan to rejuvenate and rebuild the defense.

At a time when the Vietnam national team needs significant renewal, giving opportunities to players with good form and modern mindset like Kyle Colonna not only strengthens the defense but also opens positive development paths and healthy competition among positions. Thus, this Vietnamese-American center-back is seen as a new hope for the national team’s defense in the near future.