Commentator Quang Huy: 'If Malaysia drops 7 naturalized players, Vietnam will still find it hard to win'

Ahead of the upcoming rematch with Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, analysts say the Vietnamese squad continues to confront a tough challenge even if the opponent adjusts their roster.

On March 31, the Vietnam national team will face Malaysia again in the second leg of Group F in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers amid ongoing unresolved legal issues. In the first leg, Vietnam suffered a heavy 0-4 defeat away, making the group situation difficult and forcing coach Kim Sang Sik’s team to "wait" for external factors beyond the field to keep hopes of advancing alive.

After that match, Malaysia was suspected of fielding 7 naturalized players who violated regulations in games against Vietnam and Nepal. If found guilty, Malaysia could be retroactively forfeited both matches. In that case, Vietnam would almost certainly top the group without worrying about the final match results. However, all scenarios depend on the final ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on February 26.

While waiting, CAS has lifted the temporary suspension on the controversial players, raising questions about whether Malaysia will continue to use them against Vietnam. According to disclosed information, Malaysia has repeatedly inquired with FIFA but has yet to receive a clear confirmation regarding the players’ eligibility.

Regarding the possibility of Malaysia using those players, commentator Quang Huy shared on his personal YouTube channel: “Recently, during Lunar New Year greetings, I met a leader from the Vietnam Football Federation who said Malaysia would probably not dare to field them. Those closely following the issue and understanding the opponent’s internal affairs believe that refusing to use the group of players would be a necessary goodwill gesture from Malaysia towards higher football authorities, and we understand they will not use them.”

Continuing the discussion, commentator Quang Tung offered a professional perspective: “If they still keep using those ‘illegal’ naturalized players, it will be very hard for us. Winning by more than four goals is extremely difficult. Even if they don’t have those players, winning by three or four goals is still not easy. I think right now we should focus on the second leg with a reasonable target and stop dwelling on the first leg.”

Then, commentator Quang Huy emphasized his key point: “I still hope justice will be served. But realistically, even if they exclude those players, it’s very difficult for us to overturn the deficit after the first leg loss by a large margin. If the first leg is forfeited, Malaysia will lose six points. Therefore, Vietnam should focus on playing well in the second leg, aiming for a draw or even a win with a reasonable result; the important thing is not to lose.” This is considered the clearest expert opinion reflecting the actual sporting challenge Vietnam faces.

It is expected that CAS will issue the final ruling on February 26. Meanwhile, experts advise Vietnam to concentrate fully on preparing for the second leg, aiming for a positive outcome rather than placing pressure on achieving a large-margin win, which is regarded as difficult.

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