VIETNAM'S NEW SON SHINES

Brazil-born striker Rafaelson a threat against Lions in Asean C'ship s-finals

- David Lee

Good players are worth the wait. That was why Vietnam included striker Rafaelson in their Asean Championship squad despite knowing that he cannot be fielded in their first three group games.

On his much-anticipated international debut on Dec 21, the Brazil-born striker more than justified that call-up.

Adding samba flair to the Golden Star Warriors, he scored two goals and created two more as hosts Vietnam thrashed Myanmar 5-0 to top Group B and set up the two-legged semi-finals against Group A runners-up Singapore.

The first leg will be played at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Dec 26, and the second leg at the Viet Tri Stadium in Phu Tho province, 80km north-west of Hanoi, three days later.

Now also known as Nguyen Xuan Son, the 27-year-old's application to become a Vietnam citizen in August was approved the following month, but he fulfilled Fifa's five-year residency requirement to play for an adopted country only on Dec 20.

Vietnam coach Kim Sang-sik said: "Xuan Son played with all his heart for the Vietnamese national team. It proved to be worth (waiting for him to be) wearing this uniform."

Rafaelson, who received a perfect 10 rating on football statistics website Sofascore, said of his debut: "It was a crazy and amazing night. My family is here, and the fans know I love how they shout and support me all the way. I feel very happy for this special moment in my life. The atmosphere was very good, and I'll never forget this beautiful night."