U23 Vietnam's No.1 goalkeeper causes a stir ahead of ASIAD

Cao Văn Bình made an impression with his brilliant form at the National U21 Championship, securing a double of personal honors.

Cao Văn Bình concluded the 2026 National U21 Finals in a special way, as he together with U21 Sông Lam Nghệ An lifted the championship trophy, while also winning two most important individual awards. The goalkeeper born in 2005 was awarded Best Goalkeeper and Best Player by the organizers, a rare achievement for a shot-stopper.

In the final match at PVF Youth Football Training Center, U21 Sông Lam Nghệ An defeated U21 Thể Công Viettel 1-0 thanks to Bùi Thanh Đức's goal in the 11th minute. The team from Nghệ An had to play with a man down from the 84th minute and faced immense pressure in the final stages, but Cao Văn Bình and the defense stood firm to preserve the advantage.

Văn Bình's mark was not only in the championship match. In the semi-final against U21 Hà Nội, he played solidly in regular time before becoming a pillar in the penalty shootout. U21 Sông Lam Nghệ An won 4-2 on penalties, thereby securing a place in the final and completing their courageous championship journey.

The two individual awards continue to extend the memorable 2026 for the young goalkeeper of Sông Lam Nghệ An. In the third-place match of the U23 Asian Cup against U23 South Korea in January, Văn Bình made 10 saves, saved a penalty, and was voted Man of the Match by the AFC, contributing to U23 Vietnam's bronze medal.

At the CFA Team China 2026 tournament in March, Văn Bình continued to be given opportunities in the U23 Vietnam squad. He showed his ability to command the defense and made many crucial saves, especially in the match against hosts U23 China. This tournament was used by the VFF to evaluate the class of players born in 2005 and later, aiming towards ASIAD 2026.

His consistent form helps Cao Văn Bình become the brightest candidate for the number one goalkeeping position of U23 Vietnam at ASIAD 2026. Vietnam is in Group C with Uzbekistan, Philippines, and Kuwait, while the squad is prepared by combining U21 and U23 players. With his suitable age, international experience, and proven composure, Văn Bình is likely to be the preferred last line of defense in the journey in Japan.