Key Points
- Vietnam is making its debut at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
- They faced their first match against the US on 22 July in Auckland.
- Fans say they were proud of the team despite a 3-0 loss.
The FIFA Women's World Cup has always been a spectacle of passion, talent, and national pride.
At the 2023 edition, Vietnam has emerged as a remarkable contender, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
On 22 July, a sea of Vietnamese flags, shirts, and whistles in the stadium created an electric atmosphere that impressed even rival American fans.
I feel very proud to be Vietnamese right now because it's the first time in women’s football history that the national team of Vietnam has made the world stage and to be able to see them with my own two eyes is an unbelievable experience.Quang Tran
It wasn't just about the present moment, (because) the impact of Vietnam's World Cup debut extends far into the future.
The team's presence on the world stage will serve as an inspiration for the next generation of Vietnamese footballers, particularly women.
"To be able to play in Europe like Huynh Nhu, to be able to face Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe like the rest of the team would be (a big) boost of motivation," remarked an enthusiastic fan.
Alex Morgan of the US plays the ball during the first half of the game against Vietnam. Credit: Carmen Mandato/USSF/Getty Images
"Everyone has flags and shirts, some families still carry drums, draw (signs) to cheer. There is also a very professional dance group before (the team runs out onto) the field. I believe that the team feels everyone's warm feelings," said Ngoc Nguyen, a Vietnam fan, sharing the overwhelming sense of community and belonging that filled the stadium.
It's been almost four years since I (moved to) New Zealand and the first time that I've seen an event with such a large gathering of fellow countrymen.Hong Ngoc
Vietnamese football fans practised their cheers ahead of the Vietnamese team's highly anticipated debut game. Credit: SBS Vietnamese
Strong Australian support
Many Vietnamese in Australia have shared their love for Vietnam and its football team.
"We were saddened when we knew that Vietnam wouldn't be coming to Australia for their debut in the World Cup," said Perth-based fan, Anna Tran.
"We knew it would be challenging to see Vietnam compete in Australia during the Round of 16 due to the tough group they were in, but I have faith that the Vietnamese community in New Zealand will continue to support our nation no matter the circumstances."
Similarly, Nghia Le shared his feelings on watching Vietnam play on the big screen in Federation Square in Melbourne.
"The 3-0 scoreline may seem like a defeat, but to me, it felt like a victory. I understand that winning against the USA was a tough task, so we should cherish the fact that our team managed to keep the goals to a minimal," Mr Le said.
Connection to homeland
The moment the Vietnamese national anthem resonated through the air, emotions soared, and voices joined in unison, singing with unprecedented fervour on foreign soil.
The experience of witnessing our team on the international stage fills us with immense pride, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond we share with our beloved nation.Nghia Le
This connection with their homeland was a poignant reminder of the strength of national identity and pride, even overseas. "Hearing and singing the national anthem in New Zealand, (I) never expected it to be so emotional!" Ms Nguyen said.
Unlike many competitive matches between fanbases of two opposing teams, the fans of Vietnam and the US displayed an extraordinary level of friendliness and support towards one another.
Vietnamese and American supporters intermingled, exchanging warm greetings and even posing for photographs together.
'What blew me away was how many USA fans turned up and (that) kind of overwhelmed me a bit until I saw the Vietnamese section,' said Vietnamese fan, Quang Tran.
The opposition's struggle to break through their resolute defence and the goalkeeper's exceptional penalty save earned them the respect of even American fans.
"The Americans in the row behind us also said Vietnam is really good at defending. I think receiving such respect and recognition says a lot," said another Vietnamese fan, Rachel Dinh.
For Mr Tran and other Vietnamese fans living overseas, this moment of watching their national team at the World Cup held a special significance, bringing families together and creating bonds through a shared love for their homeland and the sport they cherish.
Watching football brings my family together and fills my heart with memories of Vietnam. For me, and I believe for any Vietnamese living overseas, witnessing our football team in the World Cup holds a deeply emotional significance.Quang Tran
Quang Tran and his family were among the crowds at Vietnam's opener against the USA. Credit: SBS Vietnamese
Their journey at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup will be remembered for years to come, and will serve as a source of inspiration for future generations of Vietnamese footballers.
"In the end, winning isn't just about the final score; it's about the heart, resilience, and the pride of representing one's nation on the grandest stage of all. And in that regard, Vietnam's women's national team emerged as champions, making their entire nation proud," Ms Dinh said.
