According to the list announced by the 2026 ASEAN Cup Organizing Committee, Nguyen Hai Long is in the group of 5 players nominated for the title Yanmar Most Energetic Player of the Tournament.
The midfielder born in 2000 is recognized for his energetic performance in the match Vietnam won against Indonesia 3-0 in Bogor on August 3. Arranged to play on the left wing, Hai Long continuously put pressure on the home team's defense thanks to his speed, mobility and direct play.
Hai Long contributed to the opening goal when he accelerated on the left wing and then crossed, creating conditions for Nguyen Van Vi to finish. Just 8 minutes later, this player directly scored, increasing the score to 2-0 for the Vietnamese team.
In a counter-attack situation, Hai Long received the ball from his own half, accelerated past the Indonesian defender's obstruction before launching a shot to defeat goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata.
Hai Long's performance contributed to helping the Vietnamese team win convincingly 3-0, while creating an important advantage in the race to win a ticket to the semi-finals. This is also the first time the Vietnamese team has defeated Indonesia away from home at the ASEAN Cup.
In addition to Nguyen Hai Long, four other players nominated for the title of Most Energetic Player of ASEAN Cup 2026 include Kakana Khamyok and Teerasak Poeiphimai of Thailand, Wan Kuzain of Malaysia and Maung Maung Lwin of Myanmar.
Kakana Khamyok impressed with 2 goals and 1 assist in Thailand's 5-0 victory over Laos in the group stage. Wan Kuzain made an important contribution to helping Malaysia defeat the Philippines 1-0 to win the right to the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Teerasak Poeiphimai scored a double in Thailand's 3-1 victory over Singapore in the first leg of the semi-finals. Maung Maung Lwin also left his mark with an assist in Myanmar's 4-1 victory over the Philippines.
Being included in the nomination list is a recognition of Nguyen Hai Long's contributions in the journey to defend the ASEAN Cup championship of the Vietnamese team.
