Malaysia holds its breath ahead of the ruling on 7 naturalized players

A tense atmosphere is described by Malaysian media as engulfing the country's football scene, as the day for the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to deliver its verdict on the case involving 7 naturalized players draws near.

With only a few days left before the hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Malaysian press reports that the domestic atmosphere is becoming more tense than ever. Bharian stated that “the heartbeats of fans and players alike are accelerating,” as the upcoming ruling on February 26 could directly impact the national team's future as well as Malaysia's standing in continental football competitions.

According to local media, the nervousness is not only felt among the players but has also spread throughout the fan community. Bharian wrote that “the decisive moment is rapidly approaching,” emphasizing that all attention is focused on the fate of the seven players accused of documentation issues, who are awaiting a landmark appeal decision.

Malaysian newspapers cited the opinion of AFC Secretary General Datuk Seri Windsor John, who assessed the players' chances of success as balanced. Bharian quoted him saying: “The chances are fifty-fifty,” while noting that CAS’s previous approval of a stay of execution is seen as a rare positive sign in similar cases.

However, Malaysian media also remain cautious. The article stressed that a suspension stay does not guarantee victory, as FIFA has prepared counterarguments. Bharian commented: “The upcoming hearing will be the time for both sides to present their full arguments, and any outcome is possible.”

If the appeal succeeds, the seven players could avoid the 12-month suspension previously imposed by FIFA. Otherwise, the penalty would be immediately reinstated. Malaysian media described this as “a fine line between hope and crisis,” since the outcome will affect not only the players personally but also Malaysia’s participation in international tournaments where Harimau Malaya competes.

Another issue highlighted by Bharian is the future of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). The newspaper reported that many are hoping the national football governing body can avoid severe sanctions after the entire executive committee resigned collectively to show responsibility and mitigate consequences before international football authorities.

Bharian also warned of potentially serious sports consequences. Malaysia’s two wins in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers against Nepal and Vietnam are at risk of being annulled if the ruling is unfavorable. The paper concluded with a worried observation: “The judgment day will not only decide the fate of the seven players but could also shape the future of Malaysian football for years to come.”

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