Ninh Binh, 29 April 2026 – Starting from Round 21 of the V.League 1 2025–2026 this weekend, fans can refer to Geovane Magno by his new Vietnamese name, Nguyen Tai Loc, after the Brazilian-born striker officially became a Vietnamese citizen.
The news was confirmed by Ninh Binh FC on April 29. Geovane has completed all naturalization procedures with local authorities, and the Ministry of Justice is expected to formally grant his citizenship in the coming days.
Geovane first arrived in Vietnam in 2020 to play for Sai Gon FC. Over the past six years, he has featured for multiple clubs, including Hanoi FC, Viettel FC, Hanoi Police FC, Hong Linh Ha Tinh, and now Ninh Binh. Having met FIFA’s eligibility requirements, he is now qualified to represent the Vietnam national team, pending the final administrative step of switching his federation registration from Brazil to Vietnam.
Despite his new status, Nguyen Tai Loc will continue to play as a foreign player for Ninh Binh for the remainder of the current season, as the registration window has already closed. From next season, he will be considered a domestic player in Vietnam’s professional competitions.
The milestone is a significant moment not only for Tai Loc but also for his family and club. He has been undergoing the naturalization process since September 2025, and the completion of this journey is expected to provide added motivation for both the player and Ninh Binh in the final stretch of the season.
Currently, Tai Loc is the club’s top scorer in the league with seven goals, helping Ninh Binh push for a top-three finish. The team is also aiming for a place in the National Cup final, with a crucial semi-final clash against Viettel FC approaching.
If he maintains his form, the 32-year-old forward could be called up by Kim Sang-sik for the ASEAN Cup 2026, potentially joining other naturalized players such as Nguyen Xuan Son and Do Hoang Hen in the national squad.
Kim Tuyen
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