Player who was once banned for match-fixing bursts into tears after winning the National Cup, hopes to return to Vietnam national team

Winning the National Cup with Cong An TP.HCM marks a milestone in a long journey for Le Quang Hung, a player who once made mistakes, paid the price, and found himself again. He burst into tears during his post-match interview.

Le Quang Hung cries after the National Cup final

Thirteen years ago, on this very ground, Quang Hung's career hit rock bottom. Then a player for Ninh Binh, he received a lifetime ban for involvement in a match-fixing scandal. A once-promising talent of Vietnamese football faced the risk of having it all end.

But Quang Hung's story did not end there.

After a long period away from the pitch, living through difficult days, the VFF reduced his ban and gave him a chance to return to football. To reach today, Quang Hung could not hide his emotions when reflecting on his journey. "13 years ago I fell. And today, I have come back to stand on the highest podium. I am very happy," Quang Hung shared after winning the title with Cong An TP.HCM.

Behind the moment of lifting the cup were years of hardship. Quang Hung had to do various jobs to make ends meet, from security guard, delivery driver, to making incense. "Over the past 13 years, everyone knows. When I fell, I did all sorts of jobs to get to today. There's no job I haven't done," he recounted with a choked voice.

On his comeback journey, Quang Hung mentioned those who extended a helping hand. He thanked the VFF, Chairman Tran Quoc Tuan, the people at Becamex Binh Duong club such as coaches Vu Tien Thanh and Le Huynh Duc, and the leadership of Cong An TP.HCM for giving him another chance to live with football. But his greatest support remains his family. "My wife and family have always been by my side, never abandoning me in the hardest times," Quang Hung said.

Perhaps because he once lost everything, he understands the value of every minute on the pitch. For Quang Hung, each match now is not just a competition, but a gift. "A match for me is like a gift. I treasure every second on the field."

During the final match, coach Kim Sang Sik was present in the stands. That sparked hope that one day Quang Hung could return to the Vietnam national team. He didn't dare speak of a guarantee, only of his desire. "I always hope for a day to return and wear the Vietnam national team jersey, even just once. That is the biggest dream of my life."

From a player who once seemed to have to say goodbye to football forever, Quang Hung has returned through perseverance and effort. The championship on the very field that witnessed his fall is not just a trophy. It is a statement that a new chapter has been written.