Indonesian Media: 'Confusing as AFC Reveals Vietnam Reported Malaysia'

Indonesian media believes the way AFC mentions Vietnam's role shifts focus away from the citizenship scandal involving Malaysia.

Indonesian media express confusion over the latest statement from AFC leadership regarding Malaysia’s citizenship controversy. According to Superball, AFC’s reference to Vietnam’s role unintentionally diverts attention from the core issue, which lies in the irregularities in Malaysia’s player documentation verification process.

Comments from AFC Secretary General Windsor John drew attention when he revealed: “We were informed by FIFA because this is an AFC tournament, the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers.” He added: “FIFA investigated seven players immediately after the Malaysia vs. Vietnam match.” This statement was interpreted by Indonesian media as AFC subtly emphasizing the complaint made by Vietnam.

Furthermore, Windsor John clarified: “Because there was a complaint from Vietnam,” when referring to the timing of the incident's initiation. Indonesian press notes that highlighting this detail shifts Malaysian public criticism towards Vietnam instead of focusing on the essence: if the documents were valid, FIFA would not have launched an investigation from the start.

Superball argues that the authority to verify player eligibility belongs to FIFA, regardless of whether the losing team protests or not. Therefore, AFC waiting for FIFA’s investigation results with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) is natural, but it is misleading to blame Vietnam for “exposing the scandal.” This phrasing is seen as easily misunderstood and distorts the story.

The case is now before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) awaiting a final ruling. Indonesian media emphasize that the debate over who “revealed” the issue is less important than the need for a transparent naturalization process in regional football. Blaming the affected party only worsens Southeast Asian football’s image in the eyes of continental fans.