Despite facing a big shock when FIFA banned 7 naturalized players for violating naturalization regulations, the head coach of the Malaysian team - Mr. Cklamovski affirmed that the whole team will still maintain the highest concentration and determination before the match with Laos on October 9.
We dont let things from the outside affect the team, he said. This incident is out of control and we are just focusing on preparing well for the upcoming match. The team is in strong spirit, all aiming for victory".
Previously, FIFA announced a 12-month suspension of competition for 7 naturalized Malaysian players for using invalid papers, including many names on the field in the 4-0 victory over Vietnam on June 10. The incident seriously affected Malaysia's squad.
However, the national team still has a fairly strong squad with 29 players, including 10 " cross country" players and 5 foreign-born players.
Currently, Malaysia is leading the group with 6 absolute points after two wins. Although Laos is considered inferior, Cklamovski affirmed that he will approach the match with respect, while playing fiercely to aim for victory to maintain the top spot in the group, maintaining the goal of going deep in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
