The Cong Viettel bolsters their backline by signing a Brazilian center-back and an Australian-Vietnamese goalkeeper.

In preparation for the new season, The Cong Viettel significantly strengthened their defensive line with the addition of Brazilian central defender Lucas Alves de Araujo and Australian-Vietnamese goalkeeper Lawrence Caruso.

Born in 1992 and standing 1.93 meters tall, Lucas Alves is anticipated to bring power to the defensive system of the military club. His impressive physique provides an edge in physical confrontations, particularly in aerial challenges.

Lucas Alves came through the ranks of Brazilian football and was promoted to Corinthians' senior squad. He then spent several years playing in Europe and the Middle East, gaining valuable experience across different football cultures.

Remarkably, Lucas Alves featured for FC Luzern, making close to 100 appearances in the Swiss top flight. Throughout his career, the defender has also played in Germany, Portugal, Greece, Saudi Arabia, and Romania.

During the 2024/25 season, Lucas Alves represented Thép Xanh Nam Định. His experience and defensive leadership made him a crucial element in helping the southern club clinch the V.League 1 title.

After joining his new team, Lucas Alves stated: "Joining The Cong Viettel is a wonderful milestone in my career. I have always held great admiration for the playing style and the relentless spirit of the players here."

In addition to the seasoned Brazilian defender, The Cong Viettel has also brought in a promising young talent, Lawrence Caruso, a goalkeeper born in 2004 in Melbourne, Australia, who holds both Vietnamese and Australian bloodlines.

Caruso developed through the ranks at clubs and academies including Whittlesea Ranges, Melbourne City, and Dandenong City. He caught attention by making his A-League debut for Central Coast Mariners at the age of 17.

Prior to his return to Vietnam, Caruso further honed his skills in the National Premier Leagues (NPL) and had stints with Western Sydney Wanderers and Green Gully SC. Competing in Australia's high-tempo, physically intense football scene enabled the young keeper to gain valuable experience before embarking on his new V.League venture.

Standing at 1.84 meters, Lawrence Caruso is considered a modern-style goalkeeper who is adept with his feet and capable of contributing to build-up play from the back. His two-footed passing ability and calmness when under pressure are key attributes of this overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper.

For Caruso, joining The Cong Viettel bears special meaning as he has Vietnamese heritage. The 22-year-old goalkeeper openly aspires to prove his worth in the V.League and hopes to earn a spot on the Vietnam national team in the future.

"Coming back to Vietnam to play has always been a huge dream for me and my family. I hope to deliver my best performances and look forward to being called up to the Vietnam national team one day," Lawrence Caruso said.

The additions of Lucas Alves and Lawrence Caruso provide The Cong Viettel with promising defensive options. One offers international experience and physical strength, while the other embodies youth, growth potential, and the traits of a modern goalkeeper.