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By Hoang Nguyen  February 2, 2025 | 11:56 pm PT
(From L) Nguyen Van Vi, Nguyen Xuan Son and Nguyen Van Toan (R) receive awards for their contribution in the 2024 ASEAN Cup from Nam Dinh FC president Nguyen Van Thien on Jan. 31, 2025. Photo by Nam Dinh FC
Naturalized triker Nguyen Xuan Son has been awarded a luxury apartment in Hanoi by his club in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Vietnam’s victory at the 2024 ASEAN Cup.
Nam Dinh FC returned to training on Jan. 31 to prepare for the next phase of the 2024-2025 season. During a ceremony honoring the club's three ASEAN Cup champions, its president Nguyen Van Thien presented Son with a luxury apartment in Hanoi, while his teammates Nguyen Van Toan and Nguyen Van Vi each received bonuses of VND500 million (US$19,750).
"I am deeply grateful to Thien and Nam Dinh FC for this generous gift. My family is truly happy," Son said at the ceremony. "I'm extremely fortunate to have met Thien, who always looks out for me and my family. His support has motivated me to perform better on the field. He treats me like a son, and to me, he's like a father."
Son was eligible to play for Vietnam in the final group stage match against Myanmar at the 2024 ASEAN Cup. Since then, the Brazilian-born striker has made a huge impact, scoring seven goals in just four matches and playing a key role in Vietnam’s championship run.
Unfortunately, he suffered a fractured leg during the second leg of the final against Thailand on Jan. 5 and underwent surgery upon returning home. After being discharged from hospital on Jan. 24, Son returned to Nam Dinh Province, which borders Hanoi, to celebrate Tet with his wife and children. In the days following, he received numerous visits from fans and officials, who showed him support.
Following the holiday, Son will head back to Hanoi for continued treatment and recovery. He is expected to need at least nine months before returning to training and competition.
"I hope to recover as soon as possible, to step back onto the field, sing the national anthem, and score more goals for Vietnam. I will give 200% effort to contribute to the national team and Nam Dinh FC," Son said.
Son, 27, whose Brazilian name is Rafaelson Fernandes, received Vietnamese citizenship in September 2024. He became the first naturalized player without Vietnamese ancestry to be called up to the national team since 2009.
