Vietnam's Bronze Ball confidently faces Thailand in the Southeast Asian Futsal semifinal

After the heavy opening day loss to Australia, the Vietnam women's futsal team proudly bounced back to earn their place in the semifinals of the 2026 Southeast Asian Women's Futsal Championship. Central to this overcoming of adversity was Thuy Trang, whose remarkable display as Vietnam's 2025 Bronze Ball left everyone astonished.

The loss to Australia had previously cast doubt on the ability of the Vietnam women's futsal team to defend their regional crown.

However, in the most challenging moment, the value of experience made itself heard. And the most prominent name was none other than Tran Thi Thuy Trang.

At 38 years old, an age when many players have stepped away from the spotlight,Thuy Trangcontinued to tirelessly move, contest possession, and organize the gameplay with admirable energy.

Not only is she a spiritual leader, but she also directly makes a difference professionally. Across the two victories against the Philippines and Myanmar, Thuy Trang contributed 5 of the team's total 7 goals.

That is a telling statistic. What's special lies in how she influences the game. Thuy Trang appeared in Unit 2, a group considered more offensively oriented compared to Unit 1. This was a notable tactical adjustment byCoach Nguyen Dinh Hoangwhen the team needed to increase firepower against challenging opponents. And reality proved that decision to be entirely correct.

Of the team's 7 goals in the group stage, a remarkable 6 scoring plays occurred while Thuy Trang was on the court. She provided assists, controlled the tempo, directly participated in set-pieces, and acted as the "brain" in ball development.

Against Myanmar, the composure of the Ho Chi Minh City Club captain helped Vietnam turn the tide after falling behind. And against the Philippines, her experience contributed to maintaining a solid game state to preserve the advantage.

Thuy Trang may no longer be the type of player who relies on explosive speed, but this is compensated by her exceptional game reading and intelligent positioning. She knows when to slow the pace and when to accelerate. In crucial moments, her presence provides a sense of security for her younger teammates. If Anh My had been more composed late in the match against Myanmar, Thuy Trang might have added a personal goal to her tally here in Thailand this year.

But most importantly, the performance of the 38-year-old player demonstrates that the Vietnam women's futsal team has overcome the opening day shock and rediscovered their identity. Two consecutive victories not only secured their semifinal berth but also affirmed the character of the reigning champions.

Ahead likely lies Thailand, an opponent with whom the Vietnam women's futsal team shares considerable history. However, considering the current balance, Thailand no longer appears as formidable. The Vietnamese players are familiar with their style of play, and with a Thuy Trang in peak form, Coach Nguyen Dinh Hoang and his squad have every reason for confidence.

The semifinal, scheduled for the afternoon of February 28th at Terminal 21 Korat Hall, Nakhon Ratchasima (Thailand), will be a significant test for the defending champions. Nevertheless, with rising morale and the brilliance of experienced players, the Vietnam women's futsal team has the right to dream of another final.

On the journey to defend their title, there will undoubtedly be further stern challenges. But as long as veterans like Thuy Trang continue to burn with passion and inspire the next generation, Vietnam women's futsal retains every opportunity to continue writing their beautiful story on the Southeast Asian stage.