SEA Games 33: FIFA honors ‘legend’ Thuy Trang and the historic gold medal of Vietnam’s women’s futsal team

This convincing victory not only affirmed the new status of Vietnam’s women’s futsal in Southeast Asia but also immediately earned special recognition from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

On FIFA’s official Women’s World Cup Facebook page, FIFA posted an article praising the outstanding performance of Vietnam’s women’s futsal team, calling player Tran Thi Thuy Trang a “symbol” and the “new legend” of Southeast Asian women’s futsal.

Thuy Trang made regional history by becoming the first player to win SEA Games gold in both 11-a-side women’s football and futsal. At 37 years old, while many peers have left the top level, Tran Thi Thuy Trang continues to play steadfastly, quietly dedicating herself to the national colors and achieving brilliant success.

This gold medal holds a very special meaning for Vietnam’s women’s futsal. Since women’s futsal officially debuted at the SEA Games in 2007, the Vietnamese team has reached the final five times but had never claimed the top honor until this tournament. The nearly two-decade-long “runner-up” curse, mostly losing to their rival Thailand, had been a significant psychological barrier for generations of Vietnam’s women’s futsal players.

At SEA Games 33, Vietnam defeated Indonesia 3-1 before beating Myanmar 4-2 in the group stage to advance to the semifinals as group leaders. In the semifinals, a single goal by Tran Nguyet Vi helped coach Nguyen Dinh Hoang’s team overcome the Philippines. With Thailand unexpectedly eliminated early, a historic opportunity opened for Vietnam’s women’s futsal team, and the players did not miss this “golden chance.” With courageous spirit, thorough preparation, and burning desire, Vietnam’s women’s futsal team completely broke the curse and rightfully claimed the top spot.

Recognition from FIFA adds even more value to this achievement. It also serves as a great encouragement, boosting confidence for young players pursuing a professional futsal career.