AFC Datuk Seri Windsor General Secretary Paul, in a brief statement, said that the continental football management agency was not warned of any concerns after Malaysia's 4-0 victory over Vietnam at Bukit Jalil - a match featuring five newly naturalized Malaysian players.
"No information has been sent to the AFC about this issue. The player's condition is under FIFA's management, Datuk Seri Windsor Paul stressed.
The controversy was caused by Indonesia's Disway ID media channel, when they thought that Malaysia's 4-0 victory over Vietnam on June 10 could be canceled, because Malaysia used an unqualified naturalized player. This channel also believes that the Vietnamese team will be awarded a 3-0 victory.
The report also stated that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) could be fined $2 million and face further sanctions from the World Football Association (FIFA) if FIFA finds evidence that Malaysia has failed to comply with regulations on player naturalization.
FAM Datuk Noor General Secretary Azman Rahman emphasized that the management agency has fully complied with all international regulations. "Up to today, we have not received any letter from FIFA or the AFC," he said. We have complied with all regulations. We have denied all allegations.
Five newly naturalized players of the Malaysian national team, facundo Garces, Imanol Machuca, Joao figureiredo, Rodrigo Hidalgo and Jon Irazabal - all made their international debuts in the match against Vietnam.
Their performance played an important role in ensuring a convincing victory for Malaysia, but was also closely monitored by opponents in the region, especially in terms of their eligibility.
Despite the speculation, FAM confirmed that all year round, players meet the necessary standards to represent Malaysia in the official competition.
In the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, the Malaysian team of coach Peter Cklamovski is currently leading F with 6 points, ranked above the Vietnam and Laos teams (all with 3 points). Meanwhile, the Nepal team has no points.
