After Vietnam's thrilling 3-2 victory against Thailand in the second leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 final at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium, Hanoi FC players Duy Manh and Thanh Chung sprinted toward one man: Do Quang Hien, the chairman of SHB Bank and a long-time patron of Vietnamese football.

"Uncle, we did it!" exclaimed Duy Manh as he embraced Hien, lifting the businessman off the ground in a gesture of uncontainable joy. Similar moments of gratitude came from Hai Long, Tuan Hai, and other players who had grown under Hien’s guidance and investment since their early years.

This emotional scene was reminiscent of the historic 2018 AFF Cup win when Hien’s voice cracked with jubilation at My Dinh Stadium. His presence, often understated yet deeply influential, has been a recurring image in Vietnam’s footballing milestones.

Throughout the ASEAN Cup 2024 campaign, five players from Hanoi FC - Hien’s club - played key roles for the national team. This is no coincidence. For years, Do Quang Hien has been a cornerstone of Vietnam’s footballing success, investing not just money but also time and a long-term vision into developing young talent.

Under his leadership, Hanoi FC has become a pipeline for national players like Quang Hai, Hung Dung, Doan Van Hau, Thanh Chung, and Duy Manh, who have contributed to historic achievements like the 2018 AFC U23 Championship in Changzhou, AFF Cup 2018, and Vietnam’s deep runs in Asian tournaments.

Hien’s contributions extend far beyond financial backing. For the ASEAN Cup final in Thailand, he arranged for a chartered plane to transport 600 fans and families of the players to cheer on the national team. His bank also announced a VND 2 billion ($84,000) reward for Vietnam’s victory.

But Hien’s engagement with football is more personal. He is a passionate fan and an active mentor. Whether watching grassroots matches or advising players at amateur tournaments, he emphasizes sportsmanship, teamwork, and strategy.

"He’s given more than money to football - he’s given his time and undivided attention," said a close associate. Over two decades, Hien has supported not only professional leagues and national tournaments but also local football initiatives, inspiring both players and fans.

Thanks to Hien’s methodical and enduring approach, Vietnam now boasts a robust football ecosystem. His emphasis on youth development has ensured a steady pipeline of talent, such as Hai Long, Tuan Hai, Bui Hoang Viet Anh, and Van Tung, ready to succeed the current stars.

Hien’s philosophy - building from the grassroots - has become a model for professional football in Vietnam. His vision for the sport extends beyond the region, aiming for sustained progress on the continental stage.

As Vietnam’s football dreams grow bigger, the groundwork laid by Hien ensures that the national team is poised to meet these ambitions with skill, determination, and unity.

Ban Cam