Expert Doan Minh Xuong: 'The Golden Ball Inspires the Players'

26/12/2025 09:32:00 SportScoop

Expert Doan Minh Xuong believes that the involvement of young players in crucial roles for the Golden Ball award indicates a new era beginning for Vietnamese football.

Expert Doan Minh Xuong states: "The esteemed Vietnam Golden Ball title consistently spreads positive influences across our national football. Over 30 years of continuation and growth, the award has proven its importance to Vietnamese football by honoring excellence and serving as a vivid 'portrait' that unites the values within Vietnam’s football life.

The organizers’ efforts deserve acknowledgment for sustaining the award year after year. This accolade honors players not only for their achievements within a single season but also recognizes their lifelong commitment to their careers. This prestigious award also demonstrates that our football has possessed and continues to have a generation of players who compete honorably and dedicate themselves fully to the national team.

On the other hand, the relatively low professionalism in domestic football has shortened the career spans of many talented players. Additionally, not every player consistently cultivates both 'passion' and 'professionalism.' These are the standards and messages the organizers have set. The Golden Ball recipients are placed within Vietnamese football life—how do they grow there, and what do they contribute? How far does their influence reach within the football community?

Players themselves understand that winning the Golden Ball is a source of immense personal pride. Achieving that joy and happiness is not only due to their own dedication but also the sharing, support, and companionship of their clubs, teams, and the guidance from their coaches and mentors. Although the award is individual, the recognition honors the collective effort."

Expert Doan Minh Xuong notes: "Both men’s and women’s football in our country are undergoing a generational shift to introduce young talents as key pillars for the national teams soon. The competition for the 2025 Vietnam Golden Ball is witnessing a strong emergence of youth. While veteran players show signs of slowing down, Nguyen Dinh Bac has seized every opportunity to establish a dominant position thanks to an extensive collection of titles from youth national teams to clubs.

Outstanding achievements at SEA Games 33 give Dinh Bac a considerable advantage in the 2025 Vietnam Golden Ball voting. Photo: Tuan Pham

In the men’s award race, there is an intriguing blend of long-established players and rising young stars. Success at SEA Games 33 has propelled Nguyen Dinh Bac to be a leading candidate, with a chance to win both the Male Golden Ball and Best Young Player of the Year following his impressive performance at the event.

Having a player in his twenties among the top domestic football performers is considered a remarkable feat. However, considering Dinh Bac’s key contributions to the U22 Vietnam team and his excellent club form, this position is fully justified.

Revealing the 2025 Vietnam Golden Ball: Traditional values face the challenge of the 'new wave'

Likely competing with Dinh Bac is Nguyen Hoang Duc. The 2023 award winner has excelled, helping Ninh Binh win the First Division and then continue to lead the 2025/26 V-League. Hoang Duc’s influence is also clear in the Vietnam national team, where he plays a vital role in orchestrating and linking the gameplay.

With a historic gold medal at SEA Games 33 in futsal, midfielder Tran Thi Thuy Trang is the top candidate for the 2025 Vietnam Women’s Golden Ball. Amid a strong generational transition in Vietnamese women's football, Tran Thi Thuy Trang emerges as a symbol of resilience and timeless excellence. At 37, the Quang Nam midfielder not only maintains top form but also sets unprecedented milestones in the nation’s sports history, making her the strongest contender for the 2025 Vietnam Golden Ball."

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