FIFA has sanctioned the Football Association of Malaysia and seven players involved in the match against Vietnam.

According to FIFA’s announcement, the Football Association of Malaysia and seven players breached Article 22 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code concerning the falsification and forgery of registration documents. Specifically, the Football Association of Malaysia submitted player eligibility verification files to FIFA accompanied by altered documents to register seven players: Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Tomás Garcés, Rodrigo Julián Holgado, Imanol Javier Machuca, João Vitor Brandão Figueiredo, Jon Irazábal Iraurgui, and Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano. These players took part in the match between Malaysia and Vietnam in the third qualifying round of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 on June 10, 2025, at Bukit Jalil Stadium.

After reviewing and assessing the evidence, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee decided to fine the Football Association of Malaysia 350,000 CHF (Swiss francs). Each of the seven players involved was fined 2,000 CHF and banned from participating in football activities for 12 months from the date of the decision notification. Additionally, the eligibility issue of these players has been referred to the FIFA Football Tribunal for further examination.

According to regulations, the Football Association of Malaysia and the aforementioned players have 10 days to request the detailed ruling and may also appeal to FIFA’s Appeals Committee under current regulations.

Once FIFA’s decision takes effect, the Disciplinary Committee of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will review and issue sanctions regarding the violations committed by the Football Association of Malaysia.