Cong Vinh: 'I'm sad because I still get cursed for playing like that'

The number one striker of the Vietnam national team shared about always trying his best for the country's football but often being criticized.

Cong Vinh has devoted more than 10 years to the Vietnam national team. Photo: Giang Huy

In Myanmar, Cong Vinh scored three goals in two matches, making a great contribution to helping the Vietnamese team win the Four Nations friendly tournament. Not only is he the number one scorer in the history of the V-League and the national team, he has also surpassed his senior Minh Phuong to become the player with the most appearances for the national team.

- Having experienced so much joy of victory, how do you feel now after winning the Four Nations friendly tournament in Myanmar?

- This championship cannot be compared to the AFF Cup 2008 championship. However, even though it is just a friendly tournament, the feeling of victory is still very happy. As a player, everyone wants to win the championship no matter what tournament they participate in. Even amateur players, playing in the mass tournament, are crazy with joy when winning a tournament with a very small reward.

In Myanmar, we wore the national team jersey and played against other countries. Therefore, we always feel proud. Especially, this is the first tournament under coach Nguyen Huu Thang, and the beginning of the preparation for the AFF Cup 2016. This victory helps the Vietnamese team gain more confidence to prepare for the most important tournament this year.

Cong Vinh and his wife Thuy Tien are very active in charity work, and have a Buddhist philosophy of life. Photo: Le Thien Vien.

- What is the secret to helping you regain your scoring streak, having scored six goals in the last five matches?

- Firstly, I am professional and practice hard, making constant efforts. Secondly, the coach trusts me so I always feel confident when entering the field. Thirdly, since coach Huu Thang took over, the team has been very united, everyone has entered the field with a burning spirit. And finally, thanks to the football philosophy set out by the coaching staff, we have been able to hold the ball, coordinate attacks and create many opportunities.

- Cong Vinh plays excellently but is still hated by many people. Why do you think?

- I don't understand why so many people hate me. I'm really sad about that.

Not to brag, but every time I play for the national team, I give my all. It is no coincidence that I am the player who has played the most times for the Vietnamese national team, scored the most goals, and brought home the first Southeast Asian championship title.

I don't hate people who don't like me. Because in football, loving this player and hating that player for no reason is normal. I even consider being hated as motivation to strive harder.

I am happy that my name is inscribed in the history of Vietnamese football. But besides that, I always hope that my contributions will be recognized by the fans.

Cong Vinh said that every time he goes on the field, he fights with all his might like it's the first time he wears the national team jersey.

- When do you plan to retire from the national team?

- I want to play the entire AFF Cup 2016. But if in 2017, the team still needs me to fight for a ticket to the final round of the ASIAN Cup, I will return. However, I will definitely retire from the national team in 2017.

- Looking back on his football career, what did Cong Vinh gain and lose?

- Football has given me so much. Money, fame, passion, and people who always love and support me... The loss is probably nothing. If I were born again, I would still choose football as my career.

- What advice does Cong Vinh have for young players?

- I just want to tell you that if you are a football player, you have to work hard. Never be satisfied with what you have. When times are tough, you have to stand up and move on, don't be discouraged. I always believe that the more people push you down, the stronger you have to stand up.

According to VNE