Vietnamese striker named MVP in Portuguese women’s league

With two goals and one assist that helped Lank FC draw 3-3 with Famalicao on November 5, she ended up on 15 points, higher than any other player for the round, to become the MVP.

Huynh Nhu (L) jumps to celebrate her goal for Lank FC in a Liga BPI match against Famalicao on November 5, 2022. Photo by Lank FC

She was also voted player of the match, and named in the best XI of round six in a 3-5-2 formation.

The game with Famalicao was Nhu’s first start for Lank FC. In the 46th minute she equalized 1-1 from the penalty spot. After Famalicao made it 3-1, Nhu scored with a one-touch shot to reduce the gap in the 72nd minute.

Three minutes later she dribbled past two opponents and sent a through ball to a teammate to make it 3-3.

She said after the match: “I was nervous because it was my first start for the club. I was worried I would not meet the coach’s expectations. However, after scoring the first goal, I became more confident.”

The 31-year-old left the field on a stretcher with a sprained ankle in the 81st minute, but it is not thought to be serious and she is expected to return after a few days of rest.

Lank FC signed Nhu on loan for a year from Ho Chi Minh City Club I. The captain of the Vietnamese national team is paid around US$1,500 a month and provided board and lodging.

Lank are currently sixth in the league with eight points, 10 behind table topper Benfica.