On September 26, 2025, FIFA suspended seven Malaysia national team players for 12 months and fined the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) 350,000 Swiss francs ($440,000).
The penalties stem from falsified documents used to field players in a 4-0 victory against Vietnam in a June 2025 Asia Cup qualifier.
Players Sanctioned
The disciplined players, Gabriel Felipe Arrocha, Facundo Tomas Garces, Rodrigo Julian Holgado, Imanol Javier Machuca, Joao Vitor Brandao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal Iraurgui, and Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano, each face a 2,000 Swiss franc fine and a year-long ban from all football activities.
FIFA acted after a complaint questioned the players’ eligibility.
FAM’s Response
The FAM vowed to appeal, promising to use all legal avenues to protect the players and team.
In a Kuala Lumpur statement, the FAM insisted it acted transparently and followed FIFA rules. “We received prior FIFA approval for these players’ eligibility,” the association claimed, defending its process.
Malaysia’s Standing
Malaysia leads its 2027 Asia Cup qualifying group with six points from two matches. However, further FIFA sanctions could impact their campaign, pending the appeal’s outcome.
Why It Matters
The suspensions and fine highlight FIFA’s strict stance on documentation integrity. For Malaysia, the ruling threatens their qualifier progress and national team morale, with the FAM’s appeal now critical.
Looking Ahead
The FAM’s challenge will test FIFA’s decision. As Malaysia prepares for future matches, resolving this issue quickly is key to maintaining their competitive edge in 2025.
