Nguyễn Tiến Linh

The Vietnamese Golden Ball award was presented to Nguyễn Tiến Linh in 2024, marking a significant milestone in a career defined by prolific scoring at both the club and international levels. Operating as a striker, he has evolved from a schoolboy midfielder into a central figure for the Vietnam national team and his professional clubs.

Early Development and Breakthrough

Born in the Cẩm Hoàng commune of Hải Dương on 20 October 1997, Tiến Linh spent his early childhood separated from his mother, who worked in South Korea for seven years. At age six, he relocated with his father to Bình Dương. His professional trajectory began at thirteen after following a teacher's recommendation to attend trials at Becamex Bình Dương. He initially played in midfield before transitioning into the striker role that would define his senior career.

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Domestic Club Successes

Tiến Linh established his reputation at Becamex Bình Dương, where he debuted in 2016 following a strong showing in the 2015 National U-19 Championship. Between 2018 and 2021, he recorded 26 league goals. His time there included winning the 2018 Vietnamese National Cup and the 2016 Super Cup. After securing the 2024 Golden Ball, he moved to Công An Hồ Chí Minh City on 1 August 2025, winning the Vietnamese National Cup during the 2025–26 season.

International Performance

Since his national team debut against Laos on 8 November 2018, Tiến Linh has been a consistent offensive threat. He contributed to the 2018 AFF Championship victory and later became Vietnam's top scorer in World Cup qualification history after scoring against China in 2022. He shared the top scorer award during the 2022 AFF Championship with six goals and secured his third Southeast Asian title in the 2024 ASEAN Championship alongside teammate Nguyễn Xuân Son.