VFF pays tribute to former Vietnamese national team player who recently passed away at age 49, teammates and fans mourn

Following announcements by the Vietnam Football Federation and numerous media platforms about the death at 49 of former Vietnamese footballer Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa, his past teammates and football supporters could not help but feel sorrow.

VFF honors Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa, fans grieve

In an official statement, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) expressed profound grief over this loss and extended its most sincere condolences to the family of former player Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa. VFF emphasized that he was one of the standout figures of Đồng Tháp football during the early professional era, leaving a lasting impression through his passionate playing spirit and enduring dedication.

During his playing career, Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa was associated with Đồng Tháp FC before joining Hoàng Anh Gia Lai. At a time when Vietnamese football was beginning its transition to professionalism, he was known as an energetic forward, playing with fiery determination and always ready to sacrifice for the team.

The most memorable mark of Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa at the national team level was his participation in the Vietnam U23 squad for the 2001 SEA Games – the first edition where men's football applied the age limit rule. In this tournament, he and Tô Đức Cường formed the forward pair for Vietnam U23. Both scored in the 5-1 victory over Brunei U23 in the group stage, raising high hopes among supporters.

Subsequently, Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa continued to be called up to the Vietnam national football team during training camps in preparation for the 2002 ASEAN Football Championship. He had the opportunity to train and play alongside many big names of Vietnamese football at that time, such as Lê Huỳnh Đức, Huỳnh Hồng Sơn, and Đặng Phương Nam – icons of a golden generation.

Former coach Đoàn Minh Xương and other former colleagues of Minh Nghĩa send their condolences

The passing of Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa is not only a loss for his family but also leaves a void in the hearts of those who once stood beside him. Former Đồng Tháp midfielder Nguyễn Duy Khanh shared emotionally: "I couldn't believe my ears when I heard the news of brother Nghĩa's passing. The last time I heard his voice was in Cần Thơ. It's so sad that he left us this way."

At age 49, when many former players are still involved in football as coaches, youth trainers, or in local football roles, Nguyễn Minh Nghĩa has departed from this temporary world, leaving behind much regret. The image of a devoted forward who gave his all for the colors of his team will remain in the memories of Đồng Tháp fans in particular and Vietnamese football in general.

Condolences from football fans sent to the soul of Minh Nghĩa

May he rest in peace in eternity!