Nguyen Dinh Ap, 49, Dinh Bac's father, stated the party took place at the Hung Yen Bac 2 hamlet stadium in Yen Trung commune, Vinh city. This venue is significant as it is where locals often gather to cheer for Bac's matches and where he first played football as a child.

The party originated from Dinh Bac's desire to thank his neighbors for their support, from his early days to his national team debut. According to Ap, throughout Dinh Bac's career, from club matches to youth and national team games, his family, neighbors, and friends consistently gathered to watch and cheer, either in person or on television. The family deeply values this unwavering support and decided to host a gratitude feast, despite their modest means.

Feasts were arranged in preparation for the party on the afternoon of 28/1. Photo: Hung Le

From early morning, the Hung Yen Bac 2 hamlet was bustling. Residents from across the commune collaborated, helping the family set up tents, arrange tables and chairs, and prepare food.

Nguyen Tu, 56, a family neighbor, expressed surprise and emotion at the invitation. "Not everyone who achieves success remembers to thank their community so genuinely," Tu said. He confirmed his entire family would attend to celebrate.

Tu and many Yen Trung commune residents remember Dinh Bac as a gentle, polite, yet determined boy. Tu recalled the 2015-2016 period when Dinh Bac, smaller and less physically developed, often fell on the field, which saddened onlookers. "His journey to success has been long, particularly due to his mother's dedicated care and encouragement," Tu remarked.

Pham Thi Cuc, 60, shared that locals admire Dinh Bac for his talent and his "thoughtful" way of life. Despite his fame, the striker, born in 2004, maintains a respectful demeanor when he returns home, avoiding any sense of distance.

Thousands of residents gathered at the Hung Yen Bac 2 hamlet stadium to cheer for Dinh Bac and U23 Vietnam against U23 China in the U23 Asian semi-finals, on the evening of 20/1. Photo: Duc Hung

At the recently concluded U23 Asian tournament, Dinh Bac excelled, securing the top scorer title with 4 goals. He became the first Vietnamese player to win an individual award at an Asian championship final.

During the honoring ceremony held by the People's Committee of Nghe An province on the afternoon of 27/1, Dinh Bac became emotional while speaking about his mother, Nguyen Thi Ngoc. Because of her heart condition and concern over his past injuries, Ngoc rarely watches his matches live, preferring to wait for the results.

"I am always grateful to my mother. I hope she stays healthy; hearing about my victories is enough," the player conveyed.

The party on the afternoon of 28/1 served not only as a thank you but also as an early year-end gathering, strengthening community bonds among Yen Trung residents ahead of the New Year.

Duc Hung