Dinh Bac enjoyed an outstanding tournament with U23 Vietnam – Photo: Ted TranNguyen Dinh Bac has officially carved his name into history as the first Vietnamese footballer to win the golden boot at a continental tournament, finishing as the top scorer of the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026. Both Dinh Bac and Japan’s Sato registered two assists, but Dinh Bac edged ahead by playing only 409 minutes, compared to Sato’s 451. His total of six goal contributions is the most by any Vietnamese player in a single U23 Asian Cup edition, surpassing Nguyen Quang Hai’s five-goal tally in 2018. The 2026 U23 Asian Cup ends with Japan lifting the trophy, but Vietnam walks away with pride - and a new star on the rise. VFF President Tran Quoc Tuan receives the golden boot award on behalf of Dinh Bac – Photo: AFCA historic moment for Vietnamese football at the AFC U23 Asian Cup – Screenshot

Source: VietNamNet News January 25, 2026 08:05 UTC