Malaysia national team coach Peter Cklamovski requests that 7 players with “fabricated” backgrounds be permitted to compete against Vietnam on March 31st.
Seven fake naturalized Malaysian players have had their FIFA sanctions temporarily suspended by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) until an official ruling is made. This suspension is essentially an administrative procedure to ensure the appeal process at CAS proceeds while the final decision is pending.
The players are allowed to resume football activities, including club matches, but face significant risks if still called up to the Malaysian national team. However, Peter Cklamovski seems indifferent to this. His desire remains unwavering: to include these players in the national squad.
Malaysia’s Stadium Astro reported: “Harimau Malaya head coach Peter Cklamovski hopes for a miracle. That the 7 players involved in the forgery case can once again wear the national team jersey in the final Asian Cup qualifying match against Vietnam in March. Cklamovski admits he is ready to welcome them back.”
Cklamovski expresses strong confidence, hoping the fake naturalized players can participate in the upcoming training camp. Meanwhile, the final CAS ruling is expected to be announced on February 26th, indicating Malaysia seems prepared to take the risk. Despite FIFA imposing fines and canceling three official friendly matches, Cklamovski still denies any wrongdoing by his players.
According to Stadium Astro, Cklamovski said: “There are still a few weeks left, so we will keep monitoring and hope all players have enough time to play and reach their best physical condition.”
Furthermore, the Malaysian coach wants to ensure his team is thoroughly prepared, not only for home games but also when playing away in Vietnam, as the match will be held at the “Golden Star Warriors” home ground, and every small detail in preparation is carefully considered.
Cklamovski emphasized: “Our goal is to fly there and win. The match city is Nam Dinh, about 100 km from Hanoi. Therefore, we need to ensure all logistical and operational aspects are well managed.”
“Including travel to Vietnam, arrival timing, team transport to the venue, as well as our training base there,” he concluded.
This match is crucial for both Malaysia and Vietnam, as both need a win. Despite the scandal, Vietnam must defeat Malaysia by more than four goals. Meanwhile, Malaysia only requires a draw to top the group and qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup.
