The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has officially responded, announcing plans to appeal.

FAM will challenge FIFA’s penalty concerning the unauthorized participation of 7 naturalized players in the game versus Vietnam’s national team.

On the evening of September 26, FIFA formally issued sanctions against FAM and 7 players for violating registration rules. These 7 naturalized players were fielded in the 4-0 victory over Vietnam during the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers in June 2025 and are implicated in the illegal naturalization issue.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) announced it has received the official decision from FIFA regarding the case of the naturalized players. FAM wishes to clarify that both the players involved and the association acted properly and transparently throughout the naturalization process.

FAM has thoroughly processed all documents and procedures according to established principles. In fact, FIFA had previously reviewed the eligibility of these players and officially confirmed their qualification to represent Malaysia’s national team.

Regarding this decision, FAM will file an appeal and utilize all available legal channels and procedures to protect the interests of the players and the Malaysian national team. FAM remains committed to strict compliance with international regulations and safeguarding the integrity of national football.

Previously, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee imposed sanctions on FAM and 7 players for breaching Article 22 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code related to falsification and forgery of registration documents. Besides fines, these 7 players face a one-year competition ban.

According to regulations, FAM and the mentioned players have 10 days to request the detailed decision and may appeal to FIFA’s Dispute Resolution Chamber as per current rules. After FIFA’s decision takes effect, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Disciplinary Committee will review and decide on FAM’s violations.