Global media erupted as Malaysia's appeal to FIFA was rejected

ESPN stated that the unsuccessful FIFA appeal would cause turmoil in Malaysian football.

As previously reported, on the evening of November 3rd, the FIFA Appeal Committee officially issued a decision to completely dismiss the appeal filed by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) along with seven naturalized players. After thoroughly reviewing all documents, evidence, and holding a hearing, the Committee decided to uphold all disciplinary sanctions previously imposed by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.

Thus, the fines imposed on the Malaysian Football Association and the 12-month suspension for the seven illegally naturalized players remain unchanged. The case has gone beyond regional boundaries, attracting attention from top global sports media like ESPN.

ESPN titled their article: "FIFA rejects Malaysian Football Association's appeal over forged documents" and expressed confusion over FAM's reaction after the failed appeal: "Following the unsuccessful appeal, FAM responded by affirming their intention to take the case to CAS and even expressed surprise at the outcome."

ESPN also predicted that the incident will have a significant impact on Malaysian football and its repercussions will continue for some time: "With FAM’s immediate response to escalate the matter to CAS, this prolonged saga that has thrown Malaysian football into disarray and attracted regional attention will persist."

Although the Malaysian national team is still allowed to compete in the remaining matches of the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, the team faces a very high risk of being forfeited 0-3 losses in matches against Nepal and Vietnam due to fielding ineligible players, according to the disciplinary regulations of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

The final decision regarding the match results will fall under the authority of AFC – the organizer of the Asian Cup – after the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) completes all related legal procedures. This process is expected to conclude no later than March 31, 2026 – the deadline marking the end of the final qualifying round, ensuring there is sufficient basis to accurately determine the teams that qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup finals.