Indonesian media wary of Vietnam's top star

Indonesian media has particularly focused on Chu Ngoc Nguyen Luc, the U17 Vietnam star who just scored a hat-trick, warning that he will be a major threat to U17 Indonesia.

Indonesian media, specifically the website Superball, has paid special attention to midfielder Chu Ngoc Nguyen Luc of U17 Vietnam ahead of the crucial clash with U17 Indonesia at the ASEAN Cup U17 2026.

According to Superball, Nguyen Luc is emerging as one of the most dangerous players on the U17 Vietnam side, especially after his explosive performance in the 10-0 victory over Timor Leste. The player wearing number 10 not only scored a hat-trick but also impressed experts with two superb free-kicks.

“Nguyen Luc could become a major threat to Indonesia, especially in set-piece situations,” Superball noted. The media outlet also emphasized his diverse finishing ability and the confidence of this young talent born in 2009.

In the match against Timor Leste, Nguyen Luc opened the scoring very early with a free-kick from a narrow angle. In the 31st minute, he repeated the scenario with a precise free-kick just outside the penalty area. His third goal came late in the match, completing a perfect hat-trick and contributing to the biggest victory of the tournament so far.

Not only shining in one match, Nguyen Luc is also rated as a rapidly developing talent within Vietnam's youth training system. Superball cited information stating that this player previously won the best player award when helping U17 Hanoi win the domestic championship, and also made an impression in international friendly matches.

Superball also mentioned the inspiration for this player, as he idolizes Nguyen Hoang Duc and world-class star Kevin De Bruyne. This is seen as the foundation helping Nguyen Luc develop a smart, creative, and highly unpredictable playing style.

In the context of U17 Vietnam being undefeated and scoring 14 goals after two matches (4-0 Malaysia, 10-0 Timor Leste), Superball believes Nguyen Luc is precisely the “strategic card” that Indonesia needs to be especially vigilant about.

The match between U17 Indonesia and U17 Vietnam is seen as an “early final” of Group A, where the semi-final ticket will be decided. And with Nguyen Luc's current form, Indonesian media believes the host team will face an extreme challenge if they want to halt the progress of U17 Vietnam.