Malaysian Football Association requests AFC to clarify decision awarding Vietnam 3-0 default win

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) stated it will take further action after receiving a penalty from the Asian Football Confederation regarding the use of an ineligible player during the 2027 Asian Cup qualification.

In a press release issued, FAM confirmed it has received the decision from the AFC Rules & Ethics Committee, and stated it will send an official letter requesting clarification on the basis for the ruling. This move is seen as a necessary step before Malaysia's football governing body considers further options.

Specifically, FAM emphasized it will request the Asian Football Confederation to explain in detail the legal grounds and the handling process that led to the decision of awarding a 3-0 default win for both matches. After receiving a full response, the organization will then proceed to evaluate and determine appropriate follow-up actions, including the possibility of appeal or other related measures.

"FAM will send a written request to the AFC Ethics and Order Committee to explain the reasons for the decision before considering the next steps to be taken,"the Malaysian Football Association announced on its official website.

Previously, AFC determined FAM violated regulations by using an invalid player, resulting in being awarded a 0-3 default loss in matches against Nepal and Vietnam, along with a financial penalty of USD 50,000. This decision officially eliminated the Malaysian national team from the 2027 Asian Cup Finals. Instead, the Vietnamese national team secured the qualification to advance.

On March 31, Malaysia will travel to Thiên Trường Stadium as guests of the Vietnamese national team for the final match of Group F in the 2027 Asian Cup qualification.