FIFA social media channel compares Vietnam forward Le Van Thuan with Bellingham

Vietnam beat Kyrgyzstan 2-1 on Friday in their second Group A match at the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup, moving to six points from two games. 

Thuan sealed the victory in the 88th minute, when his close-range header from a corner deflected off a defender and into the net.

Following the match, FIFA's verified Facebook page highlighted Thuan's impact by posting a side-by-side image of the Vietnamese forward and Real Madrid and England midfielder Jude Bellingham celebrating in a similar pose.

Vietnam had taken the lead earlier through a Khuat Van Khang penalty in the 19th minute, before Kyrgyzstan equalized just before half-time. 

The late goal allowed Vietnam to maintain a perfect record in the group, though qualification for the quarterfinals is not yet secured pending other results.

Born in July 2006, Thuan has emerged as one of Vietnam's standout players at youth level. 

He previously impressed at the Southeast Asian Games, where he scored in the final against Thailand.

Vietnam will conclude Group A against Saudi Arabia next Monday, with progression dependent on results across the group.