Who is the young player who scored a hat-trick to help Vietnam U19 win big in the Southeast Asian tournament?

Scoring three goals in Vietnam U19's win against Timor-Leste, forward Hoang Cong Hau immediately drew focus at the 2026 Southeast Asian U19 tournament.

The national team Vietnam U19 got off to a very smooth start at the 2026 ASEAN U19 Championship by securing a convincing win over Timor-Leste U19. On a day when the attack exploded, striker Hoang Cong Hau became the spotlight with an impressive hat-trick, contributing greatly to helping his team earn all three points and temporarily take the top spot in the group. This outstanding performance also sparked curiosity among fans about the young scorer, regarded as one of Vietnam football's hopes.

Born in 2007, Hoang Cong Hau grew up at the Hai Duong Provincial Sports Training and Competition Center. From a young age, this forward showed outstanding qualities thanks to his goal-scoring ability and modern playing mindset. Due to his rapid progress, Cong Hau soon caught the attention of several big clubs before joining the youth training system of The Cong Viettel, where he found a more professional development environment.

The first turning point in Cong Hau's career came at the 2023 National U17 Championship. At that time, he was one of the most prominent players of U17 Viettel on their journey to winning the title. With his strong style of play, smart movement, and sharp scoring instinct, the young forward played a key role in helping the army team overcome U17 Hong Linh Ha Tinh in the final to claim a convincing championship.

His outstanding performances at the club level earned Hoang Cong Hau repeated call-ups to national youth teams. From Vietnam U17 to Vietnam U19, the striker from Hai Duong has always been highly rated for his wide-ranging activity, ability to connect play, and capacity to create breakthroughs in crucial moments. Although he does not possess an outstanding physique, he knows how to leverage his strengths in speed, positioning, and sharpness inside the box.

In the match against Timor-Leste U19, Hoang Cong Hau continued to prove why he is so highly anticipated. The The Cong Viettel forward had a brilliant day, repeatedly making his mark in front of the opponent's goal. His three goals not only showcased diverse finishing ability but also reflected the confidence and composure of a young player on the rise.

The hat-trick in the opening match made Hoang Cong Hau the most talked-about name after the first round of the tournament. More importantly, this stellar performance gave Vietnam U19 a significant advantage in the race to qualify for the next round. Based on what he has shown, the 2007-born striker is expected to continue leading the attack, helping Vietnam U19 aim for the goal of conquering the Southeast Asian championship.