The FC Mobile Invitation Cup 2026, a high-stakes esports tournament, took place at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City. The event featured eight players, including four Vietnamese representatives who emerged from the FVSL Spring 2026 tournament and four international players, competing in a two-player, single-elimination format for the substantial prize pool.

The Vietnamese contingent included Pham Anh Tu, the reigning FVSL Spring 2026 champion; Nguyen Hoang Bao, the runner-up; Le Gia Nam, who placed in the top 3 and was the top scorer; and Nguyen Cong Dao, who secured a top 4 finish. These domestic talents were poised to test their skills against a global lineup.

FVSL Spring 2026, the first professional FC Mobile Vietnam esports tournament. Photo: Garena.

The international players brought a wealth of experience, having achieved success in numerous regional and global FC Mobile tournaments. This formidable lineup included Vishy (US), Solo (China), Sacred Sake (Japan), and Soda (South Korea), setting the stage for intense competition.

According to Garena, the Invitation Cup represents a pivotal step in the ongoing development roadmap for FC Mobile tournaments in Vietnam. The initiative aims to expand international competition opportunities for domestic players, fostering their growth and exposure on the global esports stage.

Prior to this event, the FVSL Spring 2026, the inaugural professional FC Mobile Vietnam esports tournament, was held in Ho Chi Minh City with a total prize pool of 220 million VND. Champion Pham Anh Tu notably secured a spot to participate in Ligue 1 McDonald's in France, a testament to the game's international collaboration framework.

Beyond professional tournaments, Garena actively supports the FC Mobile community through various initiatives. The weekly Community Cup has become a familiar gathering place for coaches across all 63 provinces and cities, fostering local talent. Additionally, the Online Open Cup launched an early-year competition on a regional scale, providing a broad platform for community engagement.

FC Mobile Vietnam also focuses on developing localized content to enhance the experience for domestic players. The game currently features a "Pride of Vietnam" lineup with players such as Quang Hai, Cong Phuong, Xuan Son, and Hung Dung. This allows fans to build a team composed entirely of national star players within the game, offering a unique and culturally resonant experience.

Fans cheer for the tournament. Photo: Garena.

Further enhancing the local experience, a Vietnamese commentary system provides a sense of familiarity during each match. In-game events like Tet Binh Ngo 2026 and Tet Du Day connect the community, following the rhythm of Vietnamese festivals throughout the year, ensuring cultural relevance.

FC Mobile is developed by Ea Sports and published by Garena in Vietnam. According to the publisher, the game features over 19,000 players, more than 690 clubs, and 35 licensed leagues, including the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, and La Liga, offering a comprehensive and authentic football gaming experience.

At Vietnam GameVerse 2026, FC Mobile received a nomination in the "Game of the Year" category. The event, organized by VnExpress newspaper, took place on 9-10/5 in Ho Chi Minh City, highlighting the game's impact and recognition within the industry.

Hoai Phuong