Five Vietnamese national team players have won the ASEAN Cup twice, Nguyễn Quang Hải, Nguyễn Văn Toàn, Bùi Tiến Dũng, Đỗ Duy Mạnh and Nguyễn Tiến Linh (from left to right). — Photo thethao247.vn

Football

HÀ NỘI — The Vietnamese national football team have made history by winning their third ASEAN Cup, with previous victories in 2008 and 2018.

This triumph is especially significant as five players have now achieved the distinction of winning the ASEAN Cup twice: striker Nguyễn Văn Toàn and Nguyễn Tiến Linh, midfielder Nguyễn Quang Hải, and centre-back Bùi Tiến Dũng and Đỗ Duy Mạnh, who all played in 2018.

These players stand out as the most successful Vietnamese players in the history of the ASEAN Cup.

Centre-back Duy Mạnh played a crucial role in both championship teams, demonstrating leadership as the captain in 2024 and providing a solid defensive presence.

Striker Tiến Linh, who had limited playtime in 2018 tournament, emerged as a key player in 2024, showcasing his sharp shooting skills and strategic positioning. He scored four goals, significantly contributing to the team's success against Thailand in the finals.

Midfielder Quang Hải, who was named the best player of the 2018 tournament, continued to impress in the 2024 Cup and was honoured with a Third-Class Labour Medal for his contributions.

Văn Toàn faced numerous challenges, having been injured during both the 2018 and 2024 tournaments, yet also excelled.

In terms of individual achievements, the most decorated player in ASEAN Cup history is Thailand's Sarach Yooyen, who has won the championship four times with the 'War Elephants' in 2014, 2016, 2020, and 2022.

The Vietnamese team also hold several ASEAN Cup records. Nguyễn Tiến Linh and Teerasil Dangda of Thailand are the only players to score in four different tournaments. Additionally, Việt Nam’s naturalised striker Nguyễn Xuân Son and Singapore's Noh Alam Shah have both earned titles as top scorer and best player of the tournament.

This latest victory not only enhances Việt Nam’s reputation in regional football, but also cements the legacy of these five remarkable players, who have each played a vital role in the team's historical success. VNS