How did CAHN's new foreign players perform in their debut?

The 2-0 win on Adelaide United's home turf did more than just qualify CAHN for the main draw of the AFC Champions League Elite; it also provided Mano Polking with a concrete assessment of the team's new overseas signings this campaign.

On the positive side, the contribution of the new foreign players was particularly evident in this triumph. David Henen and Brayan Perea directly found the net, while Damià Sabater and Frans Putros helped establish balance for the team. Although they still need more time to prove consistency, all four delivered a debut performance that instills confidence in CAHN ahead of the new season.

Henen and Perea: A duo that immediately made a difference

In a match where CAHN were missing several key players away on international duty with Vietnam, the attack was expected to be the team's biggest challenge. However, newcomers David Henen and Brayan Perea turned a potential weakness into a strength.

Henen opened the scoring and was the player who caused the most trouble for the Adelaide defense with his speed and intelligent movement. The former SHB Da Nang striker was not limited to a fixed position. Coach Mano Polking allowed him to roam freely, seek space between the lines, and exploit the gaps behind the opposition's backline.

That tactical approach was very effective. Adelaide had to deal with a Henen who constantly changed positions, rather than a static striker waiting in the box. When space opened up, his pace became a particularly dangerous weapon. The opening goal was the clearest proof. From Perea's pass, Henen instantly accelerated, broke through, and beat the Adelaide goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation.

Perea also showed that he is not just a target man waiting for the ball. The former Lazio striker frequently dropped deep into his own half to receive the ball, drawing Adelaide defenders out of position and creating space for Henen. It was Perea who assisted the first goal before scoring the second himself. Notably, that second goal originated from a rapid transition. Henen exploited the space behind the defense and then returned the favor for Perea to finish.

Henen and Perea exchanged goals and assists. Photo: Cong An Ha Noi FC

The two goals had a similar structure: CAHN launched quick balls from the back, needing just a few touches to get the ball into dangerous areas. This was the result of Polking's exploitation of the two strikers' pace. The most valuable aspect was that Henen and Perea not only shone together but also complemented each other very well. One stretched the defense, while the other provided a focal point and infiltrated the box. As a result, CAHN's attack became far more versatile than a style reliant on a single fixed striker.

Sabater and Putros: Less flashy but crucial pieces

While Henen and Perea were directly involved in the goals, Damià Sabater and Frans Putros contributed in a quieter manner. Sabater, the newcomer from Metaloglobus București, showcased impressive passing and game management skills. The Spanish midfielder didn't need many touches to prove his value. Just one accurate long pass was enough to set up CAHN's second goal.

The key was Sabater's vision. When Adelaide pushed their line forward, he quickly spotted the space behind the opposition's defense. Instead of playing the ball slowly and allowing the hosts to reorganize, Sabater opted for a direct approach. That is exactly what CAHN need from a midfielder in such matches: the ability to transition quickly and make the right decision at the right moment.

Meanwhile, Frans Putros brought solidity to the defense. The Iraqi centre-back, who joined from Persib Bandung, was not as flashy as his attacking teammates, but his performance was equally valuable.

Adelaide had a significant advantage in physicality, speed, and match fitness. CAHN's defense therefore had to deal with constant duels. Putros helped the team maintain stability, keep their shape, and limit exploitable gaps. Together with Dinh Trong and Adou Minh, he formed a defensive wall in front of goalkeeper Nguyen Filip.

Polking's imprint and positive signs for CAHN

The fact that all four new foreign players made an impact in such a crucial match first reflects the quality of the signings, but also demonstrates Mano Polking's ability to utilize his personnel.

CAHN entered the match against Adelaide under less-than-ideal circumstances. Many key players were absent due to national team duties. The team had to travel far, adapt to the weather conditions, and face an Australian side with a physical advantage. In that situation, Polking did not force the newcomers into a rigid mold. He built the game plan around each player's strengths.

Henen was given the freedom to run. Perea was allowed to roam wide. Sabater showcased his passing and control. Putros focused on the task of stabilizing the defense. When each individual was placed in the right role, the collective strength immediately improved. CAHN began the new season with a foreign core that demonstrated quick adaptation and the ability to make a difference at the continental level.

This season, CAHN will compete on multiple fronts, especially the AFC Champions League Elite and the Shopee Cup. Having quality foreign players who fit coach Mano Polking's tactical ideas will be a crucial factor.