Will Coach Kim Sang Sik choose overseas Vietnamese Nguyen Filip to start against Malaysia?

Overseas Vietnamese Nguyen Filip is the primary option for the goalkeeper spot, with Coach Kim Sang Sik expected to give him the starting position in the game against Malaysia.

Overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper Nguyen Filip has a significant opportunity to return to the starting lineup of the Vietnam national team in the crucial match against Malaysia for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. Based on his recent performances, he is considered the optimal choice that Coach Kim Sang Sik can rely on in this decisive match.

Nguyen Filip, born in 1992 in Prague (Czech Republic), has a Vietnamese father and a Czech mother. He developed in the renowned academy of Sparta Prague, which has produced many quality European football players. His growth in a professional environment has given him solid technical foundations, particularly in footwork—a crucial aspect in modern football.

Nguyen Filip's most notable achievement in Europe came while playing for Slovan Liberec. From 2018 to 2022, he played 79 matches, kept many clean sheets, and frequently appeared in the Czech league's standout lineup. Notably, in the 2020/2021 season, he also played 7 matches in the UEFA Europa League, including 3 without conceding, demonstrating his ability at the highest level.

Returning to Vietnam in 2023 to join Công An Hà Nội FC, Nguyen Filip quickly became the first-choice goalkeeper. He recently reached 100 appearances for the club, kept 30 clean sheets, and helped the team win several titles, including the 2023 V.League championship. His consistency and composure are key factors maintaining his top status at the club level.

For the Vietnam national team, after officially obtaining citizenship in late 2023, Nguyen Filip has played 12 matches and contributed to winning the 2024 ASEAN Cup. Although he did not start in the recent friendly against Bangladesh, this does not diminish his chances in the competition for the starting goalkeeper position.

Before the match against Malaysia on March 31, experts suggest Nguyen Filip is likely to be chosen by Coach Kim Sang Sik as the starting goalkeeper. With international experience, good reflexes, and ability to support build-up play from the back, the overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper is seen as a suitable piece to help the Vietnam national team achieve a favorable result.