Đình Bắc is currently one of the most exciting stars to watch at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.

In this year's tournament, the forward born in 2004 has made his mark not only through goals and assists but also by significantly influencing the style of play, demonstrating strong composure, and impacting the overall tactics of Vietnam U23.

The quarter-final match against U23 UAE perfectly illustrates this. Coming off the bench, Đình Bắc immediately became the team's key spark. He created a turning point with a clever assist to Lê Phát for the opening goal, then scored himself with a skillful backward header to make it 2-1.

These two moments were more than just goals; they showcased the qualities of a great player: arriving at the right moment and deciding the game in a uniquely effective way.

During the assist, Đình Bắc displayed the finest elements of his playing style. Against tall and physically strong UAE defenders, he did not shy away from contact. Instead, the CAHN forward actively used his body to shield the ball, maintain balance, and skillfully maneuver past opponents before delivering a precise cross for his teammate. This play combined strength, technique, and modern football intelligence—a rare sight among Vietnamese forwards in recent years.

The goal that made it 2-1 in the 62nd minute further highlighted Đình Bắc’s class. From Minh Phúc’s accurate cross, he positioned himself smartly inside the box, leapt between defenders, and executed a backward header that left the UAE goalkeeper helpless. The ball curved sharply into the far corner, stunning the opposing defense.

That moment reminded many of Công Vinh’s backward header in 2008, Jared Borgetti’s signature finishes, and especially brought back fond memories from the 2023 Asian Cup when Đình Bắc scored against Japan with a similar header.

Importantly, that goal was not a mere flash of inspiration. It reflected his ongoing development in spatial awareness, situational reading, and growing confidence. Đình Bắc not only knows how to score but also how to net crucial goals at the right moments in high-pressure matches.

His synergy with Minh Phúc—who assisted him in the goal against UAE—is also a major advantage. Both teammates at CAHN, they have frequently supported each other in scoring at club and youth levels. Their connection continues to benefit the national team, providing U23 Vietnam with a sharp and unpredictable attacking option. This also demonstrates coach Kim Sang-sik’s keen eye for selecting players who understand each other and can create breakthroughs.

Looking more broadly, Đình Bắc stands out distinctly from many Vietnamese forwards before him. He does not hesitate to confront top Asian defenders directly, willingly using speed and strength as weapons rather than relying solely on technique and finesse. Against opponents from West and Central Asia, he actively shields the ball, accelerates, and finishes decisively—an image rarely seen from a 21-year-old Vietnamese striker.

Statistics further underline his impact. At the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, Đình Bắc has scored three crucial goals against U23 Jordan, U23 Saudi Arabia, and U23 UAE. More broadly, in his last 15 matches across all competitions, he has recorded 8 goals and 5 assists—numbers that speak to his consistency and remarkable progress.

It is no coincidence that coach Mano Polking once described Đình Bắc as "the future of Vietnamese football." From a player once dropped due to his small physique, enduring many ups and downs and youthful mistakes, Đình Bắc is now growing strongly in the highly competitive environment at CAHN and under coach Kim Sang-sik’s guidance with Vietnam U23.

The 2026 AFC U23 Championship may not be his final destination, but it certainly serves as a stage for Nguyễn Đình Bắc to shine brightly. Based on his performances so far, the 2004-born forward has every reason to be considered the brightest star of Vietnam U23 and, more broadly, a major hope for Vietnamese football’s near future.