With only 4 days left, i.e. February 26, the first hearing of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) related to the case of the naturalized Malaysian player will take place. This is an important milestone that may directly affect the group stage situation of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers and the preparation plan of the Malaysian team before the confrontation with Vietnam on March 31.
In that context, head coach Peter Cklamovski recently had an exchange with the media, responding to criticisms that the coaching staff and the Malaysian Football Federation lack updated information about specific plans.
The Australian coach affirmed: "I'm still here", while emphasizing that he had received attention from some other countries but chose to continue to stick with the Malaysian national team.
The whole team is focusing on the away match against Vietnam, considering this as a key goal in the current period. We will play proactively, with an attacking approach and psychological preparation for a match that is considered decisive," said Peter Cklamovski.
Regarding the group of 7 naturalized players who are being banned from playing by FIFA and appealed with FAM to CAS, coach Cklamovski affirmed that he is working based on the current reality and does not include these players in the plan. The Malaysian national team will focus on the force that is qualified to play and build a playing style based on collective cohesion.
According to information from the Vietnam Football Federation, CAS may offer 2 main scenarios after the hearing on February 26. If the appeal is accepted, the ban may be lifted soon and the players will be eligible to play for the club. In case of failure, the penalty may be maintained or extended.
In parallel with legal developments, AFC is also said to be considering further disciplinary measures against the Malaysian national team if the appeal fails, including the possibility of losing matches that have used ineligible players.
This scenario could cause Malaysia to be deducted points, directly affecting their chances of competing for tickets to the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
