European media speak out on Malaysia's illegal naturalization case

Malaysia's illegal player naturalization issue is turning into a major subject, drawing widespread interest and surpassing the Southeast Asian region.

After the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) issued a decision to temporarily suspend the ban imposed by FIFA while reviewing the appeal from the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), Southeast Asian media erupted with reactions. The case even caught the attention of the Independent.

The Independent, a reputable and well-known British newspaper, considers this a turning point for Malaysia, as the group of players including Facundo Garcés, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, João Figueiredo, Gabriel Palmero, Jon Irazabal, and Héctor Hevel may return to play both at club level and for the national team while CAS has yet to make a final ruling.

However, the Independent also emphasizes that CAS's decision is only a temporary measure and does not guarantee Malaysia will win the case. This means Malaysia can recall its strongest squad but must also prepare for a worst-case scenario. If CAS rejects the appeal, the 12-month suspension will be reinstated and disciplinary consequences could fully return.

The Independent highlights a crucial consequence: even if the players temporarily compete, Malaysia could end up playing "just for formality" if the final verdict is unfavorable. Once confirmed that ineligible players were used, the biggest risk is not only individual penalties but also the possibility that match results could be reviewed, directly affecting the race for qualification to the 2027 Asian Cup.

In the tense context of Group F, British media believe the upcoming crucial match between Vietnam and Malaysia will become even more complicated, as legal factors could unpredictably change the situation. Malaysia currently holds the points advantage, but everything could reverse if disciplinary matters conclude unfavorably for them.

The Independent also mentions Vietnam with a clear message: they must prepare for the strongest Malaysia on home ground but cannot ignore the legal battle where the final decision might directly impact the Asian Cup qualification.

The issue originated from FIFA's penalty last September, when the organization fined FAM 350,000 Swiss francs for allegedly submitting forged documents during player naturalization. Seven players were also fined and banned from playing for one year. This group, originally from Argentina, Brazil, the Netherlands, and Spain, participated in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, including the match where Malaysia defeated Vietnam.

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