Malaysia face potential 0-3 defeat punishment if found using illegal naturalized players in win against Vietnam

Malaysia face potential 0-3 defeat punishment if found using illegal naturalized players in win against Vietnam

Malaysia national football team are at risk of facing severe penalties from FIFA and the AFC after evidence emerged suggesting the use of illegal naturalized players in their 4-0 victory over Vietnam on June 10.

Malaysia players (in yellow) during the 4-0 win against Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on June 10, 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Hai Tu

According to Indonesian newspaper Disway ID, if it is confirmed that Malaysia used illegal naturalized players, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) could face significant sanctions from FIFA, including a ban from all FIFA tournaments, including the ASEAN Cup.

The results of matches involving naturalized players, such as the victory over Vietnam, could be annulled, with the match potentially reversed to a 0-3 loss for Malaysia.

FAM may also face a fine of at least US$2 million, a five-year ban on recruiting and naturalizing players, a general check on all player data within FAM, and possible dismissals of officials involved in the process.

In preparation for their June 10 match against Vietnam, Malaysia announced the inclusion of five new naturalized players, including three from Argentina, one from Spain and one from Brazil. However, many of these players were suspected of having parents or grandparents with unclear ties to Malaysia.

FAM later confirmed that the eligibility of these naturalized players had been validated by FIFA, allowing them to play against Vietnam.

However, recent reports from Disway ID suggest that FIFA's investigation revealed issues with the players' claimed origins, indicating possible document fabrication. If these findings are confirmed, FAM could face severe punishment from FIFA.

As of now, there has been no official statement from FIFA or AFC confirming these allegations.

FAM President Datuk Mohd Joehari Ayub told the media on June 30: "We followed procedures and instructions set by FIFA. We will not hesitate to share any information if required."

Ayub added that FIFA would have denied the addition of the players if there had been any problems. "In this case, everything was clear and followed protocols."

Recently, New Straits Times reported that Southeast Asian football fans have raised concerns about the legality of Malaysia's naturalized players and have urged FIFA to launch an investigation.

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