Malaysia sanctioned by FIFA over ineligible players in 4-0 win against Vietnam

The sanctioned players include Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Tomás Garcés, Rodrigo Julián Holgado, Imanol Javier Machuca, João Vitor Brandão Figueiredo, Jon Irazábal Iraurgui, and Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano. 

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee fined FAM CHF350,000 (US$438,225) and issued 12-month bans to all seven players involved, all of whom played in Malaysia's Group F victory over Vietnam on June 10, 2025. 

Each player was also fined CHF2,000 ($2,505).

FIFA announced the sanctions Friday night on its website.

The match, played in Bukit Jalil, saw goals from João Figueiredo, Rodrigo Holgado, La'Vere Corbin-Ong, and Dion Cools move Malaysia to the top of the group.

Vietnam, who were three points behind after the defeat, could now benefit if FIFA annuls the result.

FIFA said doctored documents were used to declare them eligible to represent Malaysia.

The issue came to light after a complaint was lodged regarding the eligibility of five of the players following the Vietnam match. 

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings under Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which covers forgery and falsification.

FIFA has referred the question of the players' eligibility to its Football Tribunal, which could determine whether Malaysia must forfeit the match. 

Any such ruling could significantly impact Group F standings and Vietnam's qualification hopes.

Malaysia currently lead Group F with six points from two matches, followed by Vietnam and Laos with three points each, and Nepal at the bottom with zero points.

FAM and the seven players have ten days to request a full written decision and may appeal the ruling to the FIFA Appeal Committee.