'Raw gem' Gia Bao helps HAGL overcome difficulties

The surprise "hero" who guided HAGL through intense pressure is Tran Gia Bao. This rising star, born in 2008, is regarded as one of the most promising "jewels" from HAGL's youth development system.

The 3-1 victory over Hanoi FC on the evening of May 31 not only helpedHAGLsecure their place in the league one round early but also opened up many hopes for the future.

With 26 points, the mountain team has built a 5-point gap over the bottom three teams with only one round left in the season.

This meansHAGLcan enter their final match against Becamex Ho Chi Minh City with a much lighter mindset.

And at the heart of that joy lies the unmistakable mark of Gia Bao. When HAGL conceded a goal to Hoang Hen at the end of the first half and faced the risk of sinking deeper into the relegation battle, many expected a tough scenario for the Pleiku home side.

Hanoi FC at that time still had full motivation to compete for third place and possessed a squad with superior quality.

But football always has room for young players who seize their opportunities. In the 59th minute, Gia Bao delivered a dangerous cross that forced Thanh Chung to score an own goal, sparking HAGL's comeback.

Then in the 80th minute, this young forward appeared at the right moment to beat Van Chuan, putting the mountain team ahead 2-1 amid the roar of the majority of fans at Pleiku Stadium.

This was not just a simple goal. It was a moment that affirmed the composure of an 18-year-old player in a match that decided the entire season.

Hanoi FC, under the leadership of legend Harry Kewell, suffered what could be considered a heavy defeat in the club's 20-year history. The club owned by Bau Hien faced a trophy-less season because of a stunning performance by an 18-year-old player.

After the match,Gia Baoshared emotionally: "I tried very hard, and so did the whole team. We gave everything for this decisive match, united in our efforts to achieve the best result today.

At halftime, after being down 0-1 against Hanoi FC, the team understood how difficult this period has been for us. The coaches always encouraged us, reminding us that many people have been supporting the team, so we all had to keep trying. On behalf of the entire team, I sincerely thank the fans who have stood by us through wins and losses and are still here with us. We will give our best in the final match."

These words reflect the maturity of the player born in 2008. Not only does he shine on the pitch, but Gia Bao also understands the value of teamwork and the affection that fans hold for the club.

This season, Gia Bao has scored 2 goals in 21 V-League appearances. While the numbers may not be outstanding, it's worth remembering that he has just turned 18. Last season, the forward also scored 1 goal in 9 matches. For a young player consistently given playing time in Vietnam's toughest football environment, these are promising statistics.

With excellent individual technique, confident ball handling, and a modern style of play, Gia Bao has long been regarded as one of the most outstanding talents in Vietnamese youth football. He previously shone for the U17 Vietnam national team and has always been among the players expected to become future pillars.

Therefore, HAGL decided not to let Gia Bao join the U19 Vietnam team for the ASEAN U19 Championship in Indonesia. That decision proved to be wise. During the club's most critical period, Gia Bao stayed and became a key factor in helping HAGL overcome the challenge.