FIFA has yet to issue a final decision on Malaysia’s nationality violation case, but that doesn’t mean the Vietnam national team and head coach Kim Sang Sik should sit back and wait.

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FIFA has yet to issue a verdict on Malaysia’s use of ineligible naturalized players.

FIFA had initially planned to release its ruling on October 30 regarding the appeal filed by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) over the wrongful naturalization of seven players. However, the “match” is still ongoing as the governing body has yet to make an announcement.

This silence has left not only Vietnamese fans, but also football enthusiasts across Southeast Asia, feeling anxious, as such a situation is unprecedented in the region’s football history.

Vietnamese fans hold their breath

The uncertainty surrounding FIFA’s decision is particularly unsettling for Vietnamese fans.

If the verdict confirms the violation, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) could penalize Malaysia by overturning the results of matches involving ineligible players.

This scenario could reopen the door for Vietnam to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup - a dream many believed crushed after their heavy 0-4 defeat to Malaysia.

If Malaysia is retroactively handed a 0-3 forfeit loss, Vietnam would suddenly have a clear path to qualification ahead of the rematch scheduled for March next year.

Kim Sang Sik must not wait

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Before the final decision is announced, coach Kim Sang Sik and Vietnam must focus on improvement.

Even in the best-case scenario - Malaysia being penalized with a 0-3 loss - Vietnam would still need to earn their spot at the 2027 Asian Cup through performance, not fortune.

That is why head coach Kim Sang Sik and his team must begin working on themselves now, not rely on a potential ruling.

Recent performances, including two lackluster Asian Cup qualifying matches against Nepal, have highlighted serious issues in the team’s form.

Tactically, mentally, and in terms of squad selection, Vietnam has shown instability. These are problems that need addressing regardless of external developments.

Complacency could be fatal

Even if Vietnam were awarded a 3-0 win in place of the 0-4 loss to Malaysia, there is no guarantee they would make the most of it.

They must still either win or avoid a heavy defeat in the return leg to secure qualification, assuming only the first match is overturned.

Without significant improvement, this team will likely struggle to make an impact in the final tournament, where stronger opponents await.

Supporters want to see Vietnam earn their place and play well at the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia - not just show up with bleak prospects.

Ultimately, before receiving any “gift,” Vietnam must earn their spot on merit.

They must arrive at the 2027 Asian Cup with a refreshed identity and greater confidence, not the passive and uninspired form of recent months.

For that to happen, coach Kim Sang Sik and his squad must act now - rebuild, reform, and prepare as if no external help is coming.

Only then will they be truly ready - whether or not a “gift” from FIFA arrives.

Duy Nguyen