Harimau Malaya CEO Rob Friend said the national team remains united in the face of an “unprecedented” punishment by the world football governing body, which last week fined FAM 350,000 Swiss francs (RM1.9 million) and handed the seven players a 12-month suspension along with individual fines of 2,000 Swiss francs (RM11,000).
“We are shocked by FIFA’s decision and the unprecedented sanctions imposed on our players,” Friend said in a statement today.
“This is a defining moment for Malaysian football. Harimau Malaya remains united and resolute, standing with our players, coaches and staff as we move forward with purpose and determination.”
He said Harimau Malaya’s focus remains on preparing for their upcoming Asian Cup qualifying fixtures against Laos on Oct 9 and Oct 14.
“Our full focus is on the road ahead, ensuring our discipline, professionalism and performance on the pitch continue to reflect the pride and spirit of the nation,” he said.
The sanctions stem from Harimau Malaya’s Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Vietnam on June 10 when seven naturalised 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 – were fielded.
FIFA said it received a complaint regarding their eligibility after the win, Malaysia’s first against Vietnam in 11 years.
It said its disciplinary committee found FAM guilty of breaching Article 22 of its code, which relates to forgery and falsification.
FAM secretary-general Noor Azman Rahman attributed the issue to a “technical error” by its personnel, while acting president Yusoff Mahadi insisted that the governing body had followed proper procedures and would appeal the ruling.
He also said FIFA had previously cleared the players’ eligibility.
FAM honorary president Hamidin Amin has travelled to Zurich to meet FIFA officials as part of efforts to resolve the controversy, which a sports analyst has described as a “major calamity” for Malaysian football.
FAM said it is waiting for FIFA’s secretariat to publish the decision issued by its judicial bodies before appealing the fine and suspension.
The Asian Football Confederation also said it is reviewing the implications of FIFA’s decision and its potential impact on continental competitions.