Who is Nguyen Van Duong, the hero of Vietnam's U17 team?

During Vietnam U17's remarkable journey at the 2026 Southeast Asia U17 Championship, Nguyen Van Duong emerged as one of the brightest stars. His brace in the recent final serves as the latest testament.

Van Duong: The Malaysian Defense's Nightmare

Within just a few months, Nguyen Van Duong became a name Malaysian defenders could not forget. In late November 2025, this 16-year-old striker scored in a 4-0 victory over Malaysia U17 in the Asian qualifiers. In the Southeast Asia U17 group stage, the 4-0 score repeated, and Van Duong struck again. Meeting this team again in the final, Van Duong even scored a brace in Vietnam U17's 3-0 win.

Vietnam U17 possesses not only the maturity of Chu Ngoc Nguyen Luc or the speed of Sy Bach, but also Van Duong, who combines both qualities. The intelligent movement, sharp positioning, and cool finishing of "number 11" leave opposing defenses helpless. The first goal—a shot from a tight angle—reminded many of senior player Dinh Bac. The goal that increased the score to 3-0—following a teammate's favorable cross—once again showcased this young forward's "assassin" instinct.

Van Duong's two goals in the final

The title in Indonesia also marks the fourth time in history that Vietnam U17 has crowned the Southeast Asian arena, and Van Duong is the emblematic symbol of this promising next generation.

Born on October 6, 2009 in Hanoi, Van Duong grew from the PVF training academy—a cradle producing many young talents. With a height of 1.75m, a balanced physique, and flexible playing ability both as a center forward and winger, he gained attention early by winning a double individual honor (Top Scorer and Best Player) at the 2024 National U15 Championship.

Van Duong's playing style combines speed, technique, and ball-handling ability in tight spaces. He frequently creates breakthroughs with bursts of pace and quick finishes, reminding fans of Nguyen Van Toan—hence the nickname "Van Toan 2.0" emerged.

Moreover, his modern football thinking and coordination ability make him a comprehensive spearhead on the frontline. And remember, by next October, Van Duong will only be 17. In this year's tournament, under coach Cristiano Roland's guidance, Van Duong scored a total of 6 goals, including a hat-trick and a brace in the final, thereby becoming the team's top scorer. The 2026 Southeast Asia Championship title is not only a milestone for the Vietnam U17 collective, but also a crucial stepping stone in Nguyen Van Duong's career.

With his demonstrated performances, this young forward is opening up great expectations to become a pillar of Vietnamese football in the future.