Two stars stand before a fateful opportunity from Coach Kim Sang Sik

For Patrik Lê Giang and Nguyễn Tiến Linh, the 2025/26 National Cup semi-final between Công an TP.HCM and Nam Định is particularly significant as they compete for a place in the Vietnam national team.

The 2025/26 National Cup semi-final between Công an TP.HCM Club and Nam Định carries special significance for two notable names: Patrik Lê Giang and Nguyễn Tiến Linh. This is not only a battle for a final ticket but also a critical test ahead of the Vietnam national team’s call-up list under Coach Kim Sang Sik.

In the context where Coach Kim Sang Sik is preparing to announce the squad for the ASEAN Cup 2026, every performance in the final stage of the season could become a decisive factor. For both Patrik Lê Giang and Tiến Linh, this is a moment they cannot afford to miss to make an impression on the national team coaching staff.

In particular, Patrik Lê Giang is drawing much attention after completing the federation transfer procedures, making him eligible to represent the Vietnam national team. However, the goalkeeper position faces fierce competition from experienced names such as Nguyễn Filip, Đặng Văn Lâm, and Đình Triệu, meaning his chances must be proven through actual form.

Therefore, the match against Nam Định at Thiên Trường Stadium is seen as a crucial test for the overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper. A solid performance against the opponent’s strong attack will help him leave a clear mark, thereby increasing his chances of being included in the official call-up list.

On the other hand, Nguyễn Tiến Linh is also on a journey to regain peak form after a difficult period. Recent goals have helped the 1997-born striker gradually restore his confidence and reaffirm his irreplaceable role given that the Vietnam national team still lacks a reliable center-forward.

Thus, the clash between Công an TP.HCM and Nam Định is not merely a semi-final but also a crucial turning point in the race for national team selection. For Patrik Lê Giang and Tiến Linh, this is an opportunity to turn an entire season’s efforts into a ticket to the Vietnam national team in the important period ahead.