Phúc shines in Việt Nam’s Asian Cup success

Phạm Minh Phúc’s rise from overlooked defender to match winner is reshaping Việt Nam’s U23 campaign and fuelling hopes of a lasting national team future. Football HÀ NỘI Phạm Minh Phúc married composure with conviction to fire Việt Nam into the semi-finals of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, bringing an end to the long-running No 21 curse in the process. There was good reason head coach Kim Sang-sik placed his trust in him with a starting spot in the starting XI in all four matches from the group stage. The 21-year-old played a key role in keeping Việt Nam secure against powerful Group A opponents, while his assists directly created both goals...