Tran Thi Duyen's primary position is right-back, but against Malaysia yesterday, coaches tested her as a center-back. She successfully fulfilled her role, blocking opponent attacks and actively supporting the offense.

Tran Thi Duyen, a prominent defender for the Vietnam women's national team, made her long-awaited SEA Games debut yesterday, starting in the team's dominant 7-0 victory over Malaysia in the women's football event. The match marked her first time experiencing the atmosphere of the regional sports festival.

Duyen's journey to the SEA Games has been marked by determination. Previous injuries had kept her from participating in earlier editions of the Games. However, in recent years, her persistent effort helped her secure a starting spot on the Vietnam women's team. She played in the AFF Cup before joining the national squad for this year's regional sports festival.

"I am very happy and excited, but also a bit nervous because it's my first time playing at the SEA Games", Duyen told VnExpress yesterday. "At the start of the game, I felt a little pressured, but then I gradually settled in and completed my tasks".

Ngoc Minh Chuyen is also making her SEA Games debut. The 21-year-old forward came on for Hai Yen at the start of the second half, playing energetically and nearly scoring with a shot that hit the crossbar.

Born in 2000 in An Ninh, formerly Ha Nam, now Ninh Binh, Duyen began playing football in 2012. She was called up to the national team in 2018. However, multiple injuries caused her to miss major tournaments. During those times, she often returned home or played futsal to ease her longing for football.

Beyond her skills, fierce play, and passion on the field, Tran Thi Duyen also draws attention for her appealing looks, sociable, and cheerful personality. Due to her charming appearance, the defender, who plays for Phong Phu Ha Nam Club, often receives invitations to participate in advertisements for fashion brands.

Other young talents also shone in the opening match. "The wing whirlwind" Thanh Nha had a strong performance against Malaysia yesterday, frequently using her speed to attack down the left flank and penetrate the opponent's penalty area.

However, the number 19 defender lacked a bit of luck to score, narrowly missing the target in two scoring opportunities. Thanh Nha admitted she has not yet found her best touch and will try to improve in upcoming matches.

Nguyen Thi Hoa, 25, is also making her SEA Games debut. The Hanoi Club defender played energetically and assertively, promising to replace more senior players in future challenging matches.

The best player for the Vietnam women's team yesterday was Thai Thi Thao, a midfielder who came on at the start of the second half and scored a hat-trick, helping Vietnam win 7-0. Previously, Thao suffered a ligament tear in 2022 but made a strong comeback. Before the SEA Games 33 opening match, she also sprained her ankle but recovered in time. "I am happy because it's my first time scoring three goals for the national team", she said.

On 8/12, Vietnam will face the Philippines to compete for a semi-final spot.

Duc Dong