Three scenarios from CAS could determine Malaysia's fate

Malaysia faces three potential outcomes from CAS, with the destiny of seven players to be determined after a key hearing that may result in the confirmation, mitigation, or annulment of FIFA's penalties.

According to reports from Malaysian media and the sports outlet Makan Bola, Malaysian football stands before three critical scenarios stemming from the CAS ruling in the case concerning seven improperly naturalized players.

The case has now entered its final stage, as the fate of the seven Malaysian national team players is about to be decided. Previously, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and these seven players were handed a 12-month suspension and a fine by FIFA after being found in violation.

However, a turning point emerged when CAS granted a provisional stay of execution, allowing the seven players to return to competition while awaiting the final verdict. According to Malaysian media, this is a rare development in similar cases.

Three scenarios are now on the table. First, if the ruling favors Malaysia, the sanctions could be reduced, even opening a path for the players' return to the national team. Second, CAS could uphold FIFA's decision, meaning the suspension and fine remain in force. Additionally, another possibility is an adjusted disciplinary measure that finds a middle ground between the two parties.

CAS confirmed that the in-person hearing will take place on February 26, 2026, at its headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland. This is seen as a pivotal moment for Malaysian football.

AFC Secretary General, Datuk Seri Windsor John Pau, emphasized that the approval of a provisional stay of execution is extremely rare in precedent. He stated that since 2015, almost no case has received such a "stay of execution," thereby opening a 50-50 opportunity for Malaysia.

Now, all Harimau Malaya fans await the final ruling from CAS, a decision that could profoundly impact the future of the national team.