Malaysia receives sentence reduction as expected, Vietnam National Team favored to win 3-0

The provisional ruling from CAS does not change the legal landscape, with the chances of a positive result for Vietnam's National Team growing more apparent.

On the evening of January 26, 2026, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) approved a temporary measure allowing seven naturalized Malaysian players to continue competing while awaiting the final verdict. This marks a significant legal turning point as the case remains unresolved.

According to FAM's announcement, the 12-month football activity ban imposed by FIFA on Facundo Garcés, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, João Figueiredo, Gabriel Palmero, Jon Irazabal, and Héctor Hevel is temporarily suspended. These players are permitted to return to club-level matches until CAS issues its official decision.

This move aligns exactly with what the reputable media outlet Seasia Goal revealed at the end of December 2025. According to their source, FAM shifted its appeal strategy, no longer prioritizing a “complete overturn of the case” but focusing instead on reducing the suspension for the group of naturalized players, aiming to protect their immediate professional interests.

Speaking to Timesport, FAM CEO Rob Friend confirmed that requesting a suspension of enforcement is a common procedure at CAS. He emphasized that FAM submitted the application on time and requested the temporary measure so players could continue playing during the trial, consistent with the new legal approach.

Previously, FIFA accused FAM of using forged documents during player eligibility verification, resulting in sanctions in September 2025. FAM was fined 350,000 Swiss francs, while each player received a 12-month ban and a 2,000 Swiss franc fine. FIFA’s Appeal Committee had rejected the initial appeal.

Notably, CAS allowing the players to return does not mean Malaysia is “exonerated.” On the contrary, regional media suggest the penalties under AFC jurisdiction, including the likely 0-3 forfeit loss against Vietnam, have essentially been predetermined.

In this context, CAS’s provisional decision is considered a crucial piece, accurately reflecting the legal path Seasia Goal forecasted. Malaysia may “retain its players,” but the consequences at the national team level are likely unavoidable.

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