Not a striker, Công Phượng’s close friend still tops the scoring chart in the First Division

Midfielder Trần Minh Vương is creating a big surprise by temporarily leading the top scorer list of the 2025/26 National First Division, despite not playing as a striker.

On the afternoon of October 18, during the away match at Long An in round 4, Trường Tươi Đồng Nai secured a 2-1 victory, extending their unbeaten streak to 4 matches and reclaiming the top spot with 10 points. The biggest highlight of this match was once again Trần Minh Vương – who scored a brace to help his team win in a thrilling game.

In the 21st minute, from a free kick outside the penalty area, Minh Vương delivered a beautiful shot that nestled into the far corner of the goal, opening the scoring for the visitors. His other goal helped Đồng Nai maintain control and leave Long An with a full 3 points.

With this brace, Trần Minh Vương has raised his total goals to 5, taking the lead in the top scorer chart after only 4 rounds. This is an impressive scoring rate, especially considering he plays as a central midfielder – a position that usually has fewer scoring opportunities compared to strikers. His consistent form and versatile finishing ability are making Minh Vương a key pillar in coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng’s tactics.

The top scorer list of this year’s National First Division also surprises fans as foreign players no longer dominate as they usually do in the V-League.

Among the top 10 goal scorers this season, only two foreign players, Yugo (Phú Thọ) and Thaileon (Quy Nhơn United), have made an impact, but neither is among the leaders. Instead, domestic players are showing impressive performances, notably Chu Văn Kiên (Hồ Chí Minh City) and Lê Thanh Phong (Quy Nhơn United), each with 3 goals, closely trailing behind Minh Vương.

The brilliance of Trần Minh Vương also reminds fans of his former teammate Công Phượng – who had often competed for the top scorer title but is currently unable to return due to injury. In this context, Minh Vương is becoming Đồng Nai’s new hope and the most outstanding figure in the current National First Division.