Rafaelson's debut in the Vietnam selection shirt had everything. The Brazilian striker, who was naturalized Vietnamese, became the champion of the ASEAN Cup, being the goalkeeper of the tournament with 7 goals in 4 games and ended up badly injured in the grand final.
The ASEAN Cup is played every two years to determine the best selection in Southeast Asia. In the grand final, Vietnam won Thailand, the top winner of the seven-time tournament, at the 3×2 score.
"We did a high-level competition. We won seven of the other games, with two wins over Thailand, which is the biggest champion in the tournament. I was very happy with the title because it was my first competition for the team, for the artillery and for being elected the best player in the tournament. Unfortunately, I had this serious injury in the final and it made this competition not perfect," Rafaelson or Son, as he is known in the country.
Vietnam's walk in the competition was ranked first in group B after victories against Laos, Indonesia, Burma and draw against Philippines. In the semifinals, two victories over Singapore and in the very final two more victories against Thailand. There were 21 goals recorded, seven by Brazilian naturalized Rafaelson.
"I did an important competition. There were seven goals in only four games. I share that merit with my companions. It was exciting the tribute they made when they were receiving the champion medals. I am grateful to be living this moment", finished the player, 27 years old.
In the grand final against Thailand, Rafaelson ended up fractured his leg severely and was referred to the hospital immediately for medical procedures. After confirming the title, his companions honored him after receiving the medals and trophy.
