Hoang Duc highlighted as one to watch at AFC Cup

After the conclusion of the group stage in June, the 2022 AFC Cup returns with four teams competing for regional supremacy in the ASEAN Zonal Semi-finals.

Ahead of the two eagerly-anticipated matches, the-AFC.com has selected four players who could play pivotal roles for their teams in the upcoming fixtures.

Renowned for being one of the brightest talents in Vietnam, midfielder Nguyen Hoang Duc, 24, is among the first names on the team sheet for local side Viettel FC, for whom he started all three group stage matches, according to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

A ball carrier known for his competent dribbling ability; Hoang Duc plays a vital role in the centre of the pitch for Viettel FC where his all-round game helps his side to dictate play and control matches, the AFC wrote on its website.

Having begun his career at Viettel FC’s youth academy as a 10-year-old, the one-club man has since seen his efforts recognised by the national team and has swiftly become one of the most important cogs in Park Hang-seo’s system.

While not known as a prolific goal scorer, Hoang Duc did register his team’s historic first-ever AFC Champions League goal last season and is adept at handling big occasions. Moving forward, he will be put to the test once more in the club’s maiden appearance in knockout stage fixtures in a continental competition, the AFC noted.

The AFC also mentioned Rizky Eka Pratama of PSM Makassar, Mahmoud Al Mardi of Kedah Darul Aman, and Paulo Josue of Kuala Lumpur City in the list.

Moving forward, Viettel FC will host Kuala Lumpur FC at the Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City on August 10 in the ASEAN Zonal Semi-finals of the 2022 AFC Cup.