After FIFA’s Appeals Committee rejected all protests and upheld the disciplinary measures imposed on the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and seven naturalized players, Malaysia is still allowed to play its remaining qualification matches.

However, under the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s disciplinary regulations, Malaysia risks being penalized with 0-3 losses for its previous matches against Nepal and Vietnam due to the fielding of ineligible players.

The final decision rests with the AFC, which organizes the Asian Cup.

A ruling will be issued once FAM completes all legal proceedings - expected no later than March 31, 2026, when the qualification phase ends - to ensure that qualified teams are properly determined.

If Malaysia is officially handed 0-3 losses for its wins over Nepal and Vietnam, the team would lose six points and drop from first to second in Group F, holding only six points.

Meanwhile, Vietnam would climb to the top of the group with 12 points (currently at 9 points).

That means Vietnam would only need a draw against Laos in their final qualifying match on November 19 to secure the group’s top spot and a place in the final round of the Asian Cup 2027.

The match between Vietnam and Malaysia scheduled for March 2026 would then be a mere formality.

FAM is reportedly preparing to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), although the chances of overturning the sanctions are slim.

Dai Nam