Le Cong Vinh Vietnamese footballer, striker Date of Birth: 10.12.1985 Country: Vietnam

1. Le Cong Vinh: A Vietnamese Football Legend
2. Domestic Dominance
3. Moving to Europe
4. International Success
5. Return to Hanoi
6. Legacy

Le Cong Vinh: A Vietnamese Football Legend

Born in 1985 in Nghe An, Vietnam, Le Cong Vinh joined his hometown club Song Lam Nghe An at a young age. In 2004, at just 18 years old, he made his mark on the football scene, winning the Vietnamese Golden Ball Award for best player.

Domestic Dominance

Vinh's exceptional skills, including blazing speed and a deadly shot, earned him the award again in 2006 and 2007. His impact on Song Lam Nghe An was undeniable, attracting interest from other clubs. However, the club refused to sell him for less than $1 million, a record sum in Vietnamese football.

Moving to Europe

After his contract expired in 2009, Vinh joined Hanoi T&T, where he continued to excel, becoming the league's top local scorer. Through the intervention of the national team coach, he moved to Portugal's Primeira Liga club Leixões S.C. in August 2009.

International Success

Vinh's international career began at age 15. He debuted for the senior team in 2004 and played a pivotal role in Vietnam's first-ever appearance at the Asian Cup in 2007, scoring against the United Arab Emirates. In 2008, he led Vietnam to victory in the ASEAN Championship.

Return to Hanoi

After a brief spell in Europe, Vinh returned to Hanoi T&T in 2010 but suffered an injury that sidelined him for most of the season. He moved to Hanoi FC in 2011, where he continued to make significant contributions to the team.

Legacy

Le Cong Vinh retired from football in 2018 as the all-time leading scorer for the Vietnamese national team. His exceptional talent, determination, and passion for the game have cemented his status as one of the most successful and respected footballers in Southeast Asia.