AFC rules Malaysia 0-3 losses, Vietnam secure 2027 Asian Cup place
VOV.VN - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has ruled that Malaysia were awarded 0-3 defeats against Vietnam and Nepal, confirming Vietnam’s qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) said on March 17 that the AFC had issued sanctions over the use of ineligible naturalised players.
Under the decision, Malaysia were awarded 0-3 defeats against Nepal, instead of a 2-0 win, and against Vietnam, instead of a 4-0 victory, in their opening two qualifying matches. FAM was also fined US$50,000.
Following the ruling, Malaysia’s points total dropped from 15 to nine, while Vietnam’s tally rose from 12 to 15. Coached by Kim Sang Sik, Vietnam have secured top spot in the group and qualified for the 2027 Asian Cup finals, regardless of the result of the return match against Malaysia on March 31, 2026.
AFC yet to rule on Vietnam – Malaysia match amid player controversy
VOV.VN - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has not yet issued a final decision on the result of the Vietnam–Malaysia match in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers, as the controversy surrounding Malaysia’s use of naturalized players remains unresolved.
