Indonesian media predicts great news for Vietnam’s national team at the Asian Cup

The Super Ball newspaper (Indonesia) forecasts that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) is about to receive a harsh ruling from CAS, opening a chance for Vietnam to take the lead in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Malaysian football is facing its most severe crisis ever in history following allegations of forging documents for 7 naturalized players illegally. According to information from Super Ball of Indonesia, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has scheduled a direct hearing with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) on February 26.

The case goes beyond individual violations and is seen as a consequence of poor upper management. Sports lawyer Nik Erman Roseli commented:

“From FIFA’s perspective, this forged document issue results from weak management by FAM. If this continues, FIFA could impose even stricter measures.”. Currently, the entire FAM executive committee has resigned, leaving temporary management to Secretary General Datuk Noor Azman Rahman while AFC reassesses the entire system.

What draws public attention is when CAS will announce its final decision. According to lawyer Nik Erman, CAS does not necessarily have to wait until after the hearing to deliver its verdict. “I believe the ruling could come at another time, not necessarily after February 26. Usually, the decision is postponed so the arbitrators have time to discuss and finalize their arguments.”

The Super Ball predicts the ruling will likely be issued just before the decisive second leg between Vietnam and Malaysia on March 31: “CAS’s decision on Malaysia’s case will probably be announced before the crucial match... If CAS rules unfavorably for FAM, Vietnam’s team could be awarded a win by AFC for the first leg.”.

Currently, Malaysia leads Group F with a perfect 15 points, 3 points ahead of Vietnam. According to regulations, only the group winner qualifies directly for the final tournament. Without penalties, Vietnam must beat Malaysia by 4 goals at Thien Truong Stadium (Ninh Binh) to claim first place.

However, if CAS’s ruling causes Malaysia to forfeit the first leg due to fielding ineligible players, the situation will completely reverse. Vietnam would gain 3 points while Malaysia loses 3 points, giving coach Kim Sang-sik’s team a huge advantage before the rematch.

Given the accuracy of previous leaks from Indonesian media, Vietnamese fans have solid reasons to believe in a favorable scenario for their team thanks to the international court’s ruling.