FIFA Slams Malaysia With Three 3–0 Forfeits Over Ineligible Players

|By Babatunji Wusu

FIFA has handed Malaysia three automatic 3–0 defeats after ruling that the country fielded ineligible players in international matches, dealing a major blow to the Southeast Asian nation’s football program.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed the sanctions on Wednesday, stating that the affected results include friendly victories over Palestine and Singapore, as well as a draw against Cape Verde.

In addition to the forfeits, FIFA imposed a further $12,500 fine on FAM, compounding an earlier $440,000 penalty already levied on the association.

FIFA opened an investigation following a formal complaint lodged after Malaysia’s 4–0 victory over Vietnam in June during an Asian Cup qualifier. Two of the seven disputed players scored in that match, raising concerns over their eligibility.

The world football governing body found that Hector Hevel, Jon Irazabal, Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, and Joao Brandao Figueiredo did not meet FIFA’s nationality requirements. None of the players had a parent or grandparent born in Malaysia, a key criterion for national team selection.

The ruling has reignited global scrutiny over player eligibility rules, as similar disputes continue to surface across international football.

In Africa, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has submitted a formal petition to FIFA, alleging that the Democratic Republic of Congo fielded ineligible players during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash.

DR Congo edged the Super Eagles on penalties in the African play-offs and are now preparing for the intercontinental play-off final, pending FIFA’s review of Nigeria’s complaint.