Former futsal player dies during game at age 25

Tran Dang Thien as a coach of Phu Duc Tri FC. Photo by Phu Duc Tri FC

Thien, 25, collapsed on the field without any apparent contact with other players on Tuesday night. His teammates quickly performed first aid and called for medical assistance, but despite their efforts, he could not be revived.

Born in Ho Chi Minh City, Thien was a futsal player for Tan Hiep Hung FC, where he competed under the guidance of former Vietnam national futsal head coach Pham Minh Giang in national championships.

Thien was also a valued member of the Vietnam Student Futsal Team, which earned a silver medal at the 2020 Southeast Asian Student Sports Festival while he was studying at the University of Physical Education and Sports.

In late 2023, Thien transitioned into coaching and joined Phu Duc Tri FC. He was also an active participant in amateur football, regularly competing in the national 7-a-side football championship.

Phu Duc Tri, where Thien had been coaching, expressed deep sorrow over his untimely passing, describing him as a kind-hearted individual, a young talent and a dedicated coach.

Thien's funeral is held at a funeral home in District 5, HCMC, before his cremation at Da Phuoc Cemetery in Binh Chanh District.