AFC raises eyebrows over delay in sanctioning Malaysia for ineligible naturalized players in case involving Vietnam

AFC secretary general Windsor John said on Wednesday the case had not been closed and that world football governing body FIFA was still investigating who was responsible for the alleged irregularities.

Asked when a final ruling could be expected, John said he did not know.

The comments came nearly a week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that Malaysia had committed violations related to the use of naturalized players in two 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying matches against Vietnam and Nepal.

Malaysia beat Vietnam 4-0 and Nepal 2-0 in the third round of the qualification stage last year.

Despite the ruling, the AFC has yet to decide whether to sanction Malaysia’s national team, including the possibility of forfeiting the two results.

In October 2025, the AFC said it would await outcomes from FIFA and CAS proceedings before deciding on further action.

The issue has drawn attention because the AFC moved swiftly in another recent case involving a Vietnamese club.

Last month, the continental body awarded a 3-0 win over Cong An Ha Noi FC to Tampines Rovers after the Vietnamese side fielded suspended players in an AFC Champions League Two match.

That decision was issued before the return leg between the two teams.

The unresolved Malaysia case comes as the AFC Asian Cup qualifying schedule approaches, raising uncertainty for teams in the group.

If Malaysia were to forfeit the matches in question, the result could affect qualification standings involving Vietnam.

The AFC has not said when it expects to issue the final ruling.