Viet Tri, 1 September, 2025 – Midfielder Nguyen Xuan Bac is set to make history as the first-ever player from Phu Tho province to feature in an official international tournament at Viet Tri Stadium, should he be selected to play for U23 Vietnam in Group C of the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers.
This would mark a significant milestone for football in Phu Tho, as no local player has ever represented the province in a continental-level competition on home soil. Previously in 2020, striker Ha Duc Chinh took part in a friendly for U23 Vietnam at Viet Tri, but that was not within an official tournament framework.
Xuan Bac’s return to the national U23 team is not only a personal breakthrough but also a source of pride for the entire province, known as the land of Vietnam’s ancestral kings. “This is the first time I can return home and possibly play in an official international tournament. I hope the fans of Phu Tho will come to the stadium not just to support me but also to cheer for U23 Vietnam. I moved away when I was young, so my family and neighbors are only used to watching me on television. This time, they may see me live in action, and that will be an incredible motivation,” Xuan Bac said with excitement.
The midfielder has been a crucial part of Vietnam’s youth football success. He played a starring role in U23 Vietnam’s triumph at the 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship, where he was also named in the tournament’s Best XI. At club level, while representing PVF-CAND, Xuan Bac was selected in the Vietnam National First Division Team of the Season 2024/25 thanks to his consistent performances.
Born in 2004, the 21-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most promising talents of his generation. His dynamic playmaking, ability to control tempo, and vision on the pitch have made him a vital asset for both club and country. With his impressive form over the past year, fans and experts alike are hopeful that Xuan Bac will continue to shine and help U23 Vietnam secure a ticket to the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia.
Reflecting on his recent achievements, Xuan Bac added: “The journey at the 2025 ASEAN U23 Championship was a valuable experience for me. I learned a lot and became more mature as a player. I will definitely continue working hard to improve and contribute more to the team.”
The 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers will feature 44 teams divided into 11 groups. The group winners and the four best second-placed teams will qualify for the finals. U23 Vietnam will play their opening match against Bangladesh on September 3, before meeting Singapore and then Yemen, a clash expected to be decisive in determining progression.
Ha Phuong
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