News Straits Time (Malaysia) has just published an article emphasizing: FIFA's decision to fine the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and suspend 7 naturalized players from playing could have a negative impact on the entire football ecosystem of this country.
The newspaper quoted Mr. Firdaus Mohamed - former Vice President of FAM, and President of the Football Association of Malaysia (PBMM), saying that any reaction from FAM needs to be carefully considered to avoid making the situation worse, causing long-term damage to Malaysian football.
This person believes that FAM is trying to find the optimal solution, because the consequences of the incident are not only limited to the national team level but also spread to clubs and affiliated units.
"I believe FAM is trying not to accept further sanctions from FIFA. That is what we all expect. When there are fines, state associations and related units will also be affected," Mr. Firdaus shared.
Selangor successfully defended their third consecutive championship title after winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout, drawing 1-1 after 120 minutes of play. The award ceremony was attended by many high-level football leaders, including Mr. Firdaus.
Mr. Firdaus emphasized that FAM needs to seriously learn from the experience of this penalty to avoid making mistakes in the future.
"I don't know the specific role of the national team's coaching staff and FAM in this incident, but in the end, FAM as the governing body will have to take responsibility." he said.
According to FIFA's decision, the Football Association of Malaysia was fined 350,000 CHF, while 7 naturalized players including Rodrigo Holcado, facundo Garces, Imanol Machuca, Hector Hevel, Gabriel Palmero, Joao Figueiredo and Jon Irazabal were banned from playing for 12 months and each was fined 2,000 CHF.
