Kuala Lumpur: History will be made this year as Malaysia and Vietnam clash for the first time in the final of the AFF Suzuki Cup.

With each nation having lifted the trophy once before, whoever emerges on top will become the third most successful country in the history of the competition and there are several key players aiming to fire their team to glory over the two-legged final.

Time to take a look then at some of the players from Vietnam who could be crucial to the Golden Stars’ hopes of adding to their 2008 title.

Phan Van Duc

Heading into the AFF Suzuki Cup the classy midfielder was battling for a regular start in the star-studded Vietnamese midfield but approaching the final he’s now a key component of it.

Silky on the ball, with a good range of passing and vision, the 22-year-old has been a driving force in the final third for Vietnam where he’s both set up and scored goals.

Doan Van Hau

Part of a defensive unit that’s conceded only twice in six matches, the dynamic Van Hau has also been a real threat pushing forward where he’s provided a string of dangerous crosses from deep.

A key cog in the five-man backline, the left-sided wingback has displayed a great work rate in getting up and down the flank. He has contributed several key assists, proven that he’s also a reliable tackler in one-on-one situations and has blossomed into a real star for a side that’s missing the injured Vu Van Thanh.

Nguyen Quang Hai

One of Asia’s most gifted playmakers, there’s little the 21-year-old can’t do and with a superb range of passing, vision and movement he’s been one of the standout players at the tournament.

Able to drift deep and also across the front third, the left-footed wizard is a constant danger and having already twice won man of the match awards he looms as the main threat that Malaysia will need to nullify – but that’s easier said than done.