Lê Huỳnh Đức: A Trailblazing Career in Vietnamese Football
Lê Huỳnh Đức stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of Vietnamese football. From his early days as a prolific striker to his successful transition into management, his journey is marked by several historic firsts that paved the way for future generations of athletes in Vietnam.
Professional Playing Career
Lê Huỳnh Đức entered the professional football scene in 1991, beginning his journey with the 7th Military Region's football club based in Ho Chi Minh City. His potential was quickly recognized, leading to a move in 1992 to the Ho Chi Minh City Police. This period proved to be the most productive stint of his playing career, as he remained with the club until 2000.
During his club success, he became a cornerstone of the Vietnam national football team. Joining the national squad in 1995, he played through 2000, with subsequent returns in 2002 and 2004. By the end of his international tenure, he had earned a record 60 caps and established himself as the team's top scorer.
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Breaking International Barriers
In 2001, Lê Huỳnh Đức achieved a landmark milestone for Vietnamese sports. He became the first Vietnamese footballer to be signed by an overseas club when he joined Chongqing Lifan, a team competing in the Chinese Super League. This move broke new ground for Vietnamese players seeking professional opportunities abroad.
Following his time in China, he returned to Vietnam in 2002 to join Ngan Hang Dong A for two years. His final playing chapter took place at SHB Da Nang, where he played from 2004 until his transition into management in 2008.
Transition to Coaching and Management
Lê Huỳnh Đức's move into leadership began while he was still with the East Asian Bank football club, where he served as an assistant manager. He carried this experience to SHB Da Nang, continuing in an assistant role until he was promoted to Manager in 2008.
His tactical acumen was quickly recognized on a national scale. In 2009, he was nominated by Manager Calisto to serve as the assistant manager of the Vietnam national football team. That same year, he made history in the V-League (Vietnam's professional football league) by becoming the youngest coach to be named Best Coach of the Month in March.
His momentum continued throughout the spring of 2009, winning the Best Coach of the Month award in April and May. This achievement made him the first coach in the league's history to win the award for three consecutive months. Under his leadership, SHB Da Nang reached the pinnacle of domestic success, emerging as champions of both the 2009 V-League and the Vietnamese Cup.
Key Facts
- International Record: Earned 60 caps for the Vietnam national team and served as its top scorer.
- Historic First: First Vietnamese footballer to play abroad (Chongqing Lifan, China).
- Coaching Milestone: First V-League coach to win Best Coach of the Month for three consecutive months (March, April, May 2009).
- Major Trophies: Led SHB Da Nang to the 2009 V-League title and the Vietnamese Cup.
| Period | Role | Organization/Club |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Player | 7th Military Region |
| 1992–2000 | Player | Ho Chi Minh City Police |
| 1995–2004 | Player | Vietnam National Team |
| 2001 | Player | Chongqing Lifan (China) |
| 2002–2004 | Player | Ngan Hang Dong A |
| 2004–2008 | Player | SHB Da Nang |
| 2008–2009 | Manager | SHB Da Nang |
| 2009 | Assistant Manager | Vietnam National Team |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which club did Lê Huỳnh Đức play for during his most productive years?
He had his most productive stint with the Ho Chi Minh City Police, where he played from 1992 until 2000.
What was Lê Huỳnh Đức's record with the Vietnam national team?
He earned a record 60 caps and was the top scorer for the national team.
Why is his move to Chongqing Lifan significant?
It was a historic move as he became the first Vietnamese footballer to be signed to play for a club abroad.
What coaching records did he set in the V-League?
He was the youngest coach to win the Best Coach of the Month award (March 2009) and the first to win it for three consecutive months (March, April, and May 2009).
Which titles did he win as a manager with SHB Da Nang?
He led SHB Da Nang to victory in both the 2009 V-League and the Vietnamese Cup.