How did Coach Kim Sang Sik respond to Malaysia being penalized by FIFA?

Coach Kim Sang Sik was informed that Malaysia was sanctioned for fielding 7 naturalized players illegally in the match against Vietnam’s national team.

According to some sources, Coach Kim Sang Sik received the latest update on the evening of September 27 after FIFA issued a penalty to the Football Association of Malaysia due to the illegal naturalization of players in their 4-0 victory over Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. The Korean strategist was updated by the Vietnam Football Federation.

Although FIFA has not officially ruled on the outcome of the match between Vietnam and Malaysia, it is highly likely that Malaysia will be deemed to have lost 0-3according to standard football regulations. Any team that fields ineligible players, regardless of the reason, will be automatically punished with a 0-3 loss.

If awarded a 3-0 win, Vietnam’s chances of qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup finals will be greatly improved. Previously, after the 0-4 defeat to Malaysia, Coach Kim Sang Sik’s team’s prospects were nearly closed because Malaysia is their direct competitor in Group F. Winning convincingly against this opponent in the return match in March 2026 is an extremely challenging task.

Additionally, the 12-month ban imposed by FIFA on Malaysia’s 7 naturalized players will significantly weaken their squad quality. In the upcoming return match, without these naturalized players, Malaysia will face great difficulties competing evenly against Vietnam.

Therefore, Coach Kim Sang Sik will certainly discuss with the Vietnam Football Federation to plan strategies for the near future. The chance of being awarded a 3-0 win is very high, and this will be a valuable opportunity for Vietnam to secure a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup finals.

With two weaker opponents, Laos and Nepal, it should be easy for Vietnam to earn all 9 points before facing Malaysia again. If awarded a 3-0 win, the "Golden Dragons" will lead their rival by 3 points and have the advantage of playing at home in the return leg. It will be very difficult for Malaysia to overturn the situation.

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