Breaking Nepal’s defense, Vietnam’s top scorer is about to make history

After netting a goal in the match versus Nepal, Tiến Linh is close to becoming the second top scorer in the history of Vietnam’s national team.

Forward Nguyễn Tiến Linh reaffirmed his status as Vietnam’s leading striker by scoring the opening goal against Nepal in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. This goal raised his total to 26 goals in 63 appearances for the national team, just one goal behind legend Lê Huỳnh Đức, who ranks second in all-time scoring for Vietnam.

This recent goal is not only crucial for the match but also marks a significant milestone for Tiến Linh personally — he is very close to becoming Vietnam’s second greatest all-time scorer, behind Lê Công Vinh (51 goals in 83 matches). Given his current form, surpassing his mentor Huỳnh Đức’s record in the upcoming matches is entirely achievable.

Tiến Linh’s strong resurgence began after reuniting with coach Lê Huỳnh Đức at Công an TP.HCM club. Entrusted with the captain’s armband, the 1997-born striker gained renewed motivation, consistently scoring in the V-League and currently leading domestic scorers with 3 goals in 6 matches. Under the guidance of the former Vietnamese attacking legend, Tiến Linh has regained his killer instinct and confidence.

With Xuân Son still unable to return, Tiến Linh’s role in the Vietnam national team has become even more vital. Coach Kim Sang Sik continues to place full trust in him — a player who always knows how to shine at critical moments in major matches.

From a football-loving boy in Bình Dương to a new icon of Vietnam’s attack, Tiến Linh is steadily writing his own story. Just one more goal will officially put him level with his mentor Lê Huỳnh Đức — and the journey to conquer new heights as the nation’s top striker is still ongoing.

Returning to the match, besides Tiến Linh’s goal, Vietnam secured two more goals from Xuân Mạnh and Văn Vĩ to claim a 3-1 victory over Nepal.