Due to the FIFA sanction, Malaysia imposed a ban before the match against Laos.

Before facing Laos, Malaysia's national team attracted notice by suddenly conducting private training sessions, prohibiting media from reporting during a turbulent time linked to the country's football naturalization controversy.

Prior to the match against Laos in the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, Malaysia’s national team has caught attention by opting for closed training sessions, severely limiting media access. This move comes as Malaysian football undergoes significant upheaval following a heavy FIFA penalty related to a player naturalization scandal.

Under the guidance of coach Peter Cklamovski, the entire Malaysian squad entered their final preparation phase for the match at Bukit Jalil Stadium. However, unlike usual practice, all training sessions were held behind closed doors, allowing only internal members to attend. Many Malaysian journalists reported being denied access to the training ground or the opportunity to question the coaching staff and players as normally permitted.

Explaining this decision, coach Peter Cklamovski stated that restricting media access was intended to help players maintain their highest level of concentration. He said: “This is not an attempt to avoid the press. We simply want to focus on what matters most — the football and the match results. Once the situation stabilizes, there will be more chances for the media to engage with the team.”

The Australian strategist also apologized to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) after previously being accused of making inappropriate remarks. “I did not intend to criticize or disrespect FAM. If my words caused any misunderstandings, I sincerely apologize. What I want to emphasize is that the team always focuses on what is controllable — the football field.”, he shared.

Facing pressure from the FIFA sanction and controversies involving seven naturalized players found to have forged documents, coach Cklamovski affirmed that the entire team is striving to maintain a positive spirit. He urged fans to continue supporting and attend Bukit Jalil to cheer for the team: “We want to bring pride to the country and inspire the young generation of Malaysia.”

The match between Malaysia and Laos will take place at 8 PM on October 14 (Vietnam time). After this game, Malaysia will have a crucial away match at Vietnam’s My Dinh Stadium on December 18 — a game considered pivotal in deciding the top spot in Group F of the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.