I don't consider myself the best
My family has taught me humility, diligence and gratitude. No matter what achievements I achieve, I always remember where I started. That is what helps me always maintain my stance," Vietnamese women's national team captain Huynh Nhu shared with the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
That humility has never left her, even when goals, titles and milestones have marked her career lasting more than a decade. Despite the records associated with her name, including being the highest scorer of all time for the Vietnamese women's team, Huynh Nhu still feels uncomfortable when all attention is focused on her.
I don't consider myself the best. I am just someone who always dedicates myself to Vietnamese football. If there is anything to be proud of, it is that I have had the opportunity to play with generations of excellent players and contribute, even a small part, to the development of women's football in Vietnam," Huynh Nhu emphasized.
Also according to this veteran striker, the Vietnamese women's team winning a ticket to the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup is one of the most emotional chapters in her life. As captain, she felt that many years of effort had converged into an unforgettable moment.
I feel proud that we have achieved something that previously seemed out of reach," Huynh Nhu emphasized.
That pride helped her overcome the tournament, even when Vietnam had to face the reality of competition with the strongest teams in the world.
Participating in the Women's World Cup shows that Vietnam still has a lot to do to be on par with the world's top teams, but the most profound thing that remains in her memory is not the matches. "The thing I remember most is the love from the fans, those who have followed and supported us," the captain of the Vietnamese women's team shared.
Determined to bring the Vietnamese women's team back to the World Cup
Huynh Nhu and the Vietnamese women's team are preparing for the 2026 Asian Women's Football Championship, where the team is in Group C with the Japan, India and Taiwan (China) women's teams. This is a tournament to prepare for the 2027 Women's World Cup qualifiers.
Huynh Nhu affirmed that her goal is for the team. She said: "I don't focus too much on personal goals. What I want most is for the whole team to play well, be united and maintain a fighting spirit. If I can contribute through my goals or simply my experience, that would make me happy already.
The five Vietnam Women's Golden Ball awards affirm Huynh Nhu's position as one of the best players in Vietnam. Each award has its own meaning, but according to Huynh Nhu, the first award has a special position. "That is recognition for a young girl who always tries her best every day," she recalled.
In addition, Huynh Nhu also misses the memories she has experienced when she scored 70 goals in 121 appearances for the Vietnamese women's team. "I remember the moments more than the numbers. Each goal is associated with a match, an emotion, a hug from teammates. The numbers are just statistics - memories will last forever," the captain of the Vietnamese women's team said.
For Nhu, returning to the World Cup is of special significance to Vietnamese football.
She believes that every appearance on the international arena brings greater recognition and investment for Vietnamese women's football. And when looking towards the future, her hope is very clear.
I hope young players will see that with perseverance and effort, they can reach the world level. I hope Vietnamese women's football will continue to develop and more players will have the opportunity to play abroad," Huynh Nhu concluded.
