Brian Jeffrey
The buzz surrounding Hoang Duc intensified as his contract with The Cong Viettel FC was drawing to a close, sparking optimism among Vietnamese football enthusiasts who believed he had the potential for international accomplishments surpassing previous stars like Cong Phuong, Quang Hai, and Van Hau.
As the V-League 2023/24 season concluded, the uncertainty looms over Hoang Duc’s future. It appears increasingly likely that he will opt to continue playing domestically rather than seeking opportunities overseas.
Standing out among his peers born in 1997-1998, midfielder Hoang Duc has established himself as one of the most distinguished. Since 2017, he has been a pivotal figure in various national squads (U20, U23, and the senior team) as well as his club. His career is dotted with numerous accolades, with the AFF Cup title being the most notable absence.
Hoang Duc’s journey has been a blend of financial prosperity and widespread acclaim, on par with notable names like Quang Hai and Tuan Hai. At 26, he has achieved what many Vietnamese footballers dream of: recognition, wealth, and significant on-field victories.
Despite his impressive track record, Hoang Duc appears to lack the drive to explore opportunities abroad. At his age, 26, it would be an optimal time to depart the V-League and test his skills in a new setting, potentially elevating his abilities and contributing to the growth of Vietnamese football. Nonetheless, he seems inclined to remain, indicating a preference for the “comfort zone” over the challenges of a foreign league.
This decision hints at a lesser degree of ambition compared to his compatriots who have ventured abroad, such as Quang Hai, Cong Phuong, and Xuan Truong. While it is his personal choice and he is not obligated to assist in propelling Vietnamese football to greater heights, it does represent a missed opportunity for the sport in Vietnam.
Vietnamese football could benefit from players like Hoang Duc and Tuan Hai stepping out of their familiar surroundings to pursue international careers, aiding in the resurgence of the country’s football reputation and advancement on a continental level. Regrettably, this shift has yet to occur, disappointing fans and the football community.
Facts About Hoang Duc
Viettel FC: Hoang Duc has been a crucial asset for Viettel FC, a prominent Vietnamese football club. Joining in 2017, he played a significant role in their triumphs in the V-League, the country’s premier professional football competition. His contributions aided Viettel FC in clinching the V-League 1 title in 2020, a notable achievement for the team.
Vietnam U20 and U23: Hoang Duc shone in various national teams at different age levels, including the U20 and U23 squads. He played a key role in the U23 team’s successes in regional competitions. A standout moment was during the 2019 SEA Games, where his performance was crucial in securing the gold medal for Vietnam’s U22 team.
National team: Integral to the Vietnamese national team, Hoang Duc has participated in several significant tournaments such as the AFC Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers.
Hoang Duc’s versatility in midfield is well-known. With excellent ball control, vision, and adept ball distribution, he excels on the field. His playing style is characterized by composure under pressure, precise passing, and the knack for scoring vital goals. Defensively sound, he showcases a well-rounded skill set.
Achievements and honors
V-League 1 Champion (2020): With Viettel FC
SEA Games Gold Medal (2019): With Vietnam U22 team
Vietnam Golden Ball (2021): Best Vietnamese football player of the year
