Malaysian media reacts as Vietnam's national team secures qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup.

The AFC's disciplinary decision reversed the situation in Group F, enabling Vietnam to move from second place to the top and officially secure a spot in the 2027 Asian Cup finals one match early.

The disciplinary ruling by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) against the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) created a major turning point in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers and also drew significant attention from Malaysian media. The outlet Makanbola simultaneously reported on Vietnam's national team officially qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup finals after Malaysia was penalized.

According to sources from Malaysian media, the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Committee determined FAM violated Article 56 of the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Code by using an ineligible player in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. After reviewing evidence and FAM's explanation, AFC decided to annul Malaysia's two wins against Nepal and Vietnam.

Specifically, the 2-0 victory over Nepal in March 2025 and the 4-0 victory over Vietnam in June 2025 were both canceled. Instead, AFC ruled Malaysia lost 0-3 in both matches, awarding Nepal and Vietnam wins with the same score.

This decision caused Malaysia to lose 6 points, dropping them to second place in Group F with 9 points. Meanwhile, Vietnam gained 3 points and rose to lead the group with 15 points after 5 matches. With a 6-point gap before the final match, Vietnam's national team officially secured the sole Group F ticket to advance to the finals of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.

Malaysian media assessed that this development completely altered the group's landscape. Given the current point difference, coach Kim Sang-sik and his squad have officially earned qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup, which will be held in Saudi Arabia.

Some articles also stated this is a major shock for Malaysian football, as the national team previously held an advantage in the race for qualification. The annulment of two crucial victories not only cost Malaysia the group lead but also the seemingly assured qualification ticket.

Besides the professional penalty, FAM must also pay a $50,000 fine. According to Malaysian media, the country's football association is considering requesting AFC provide a detailed explanation of the disciplinary decision before weighing next steps, including the possibility of appeal.

Vietnam will face Malaysia itself on March 31. However, the match result holds little significance as the situation in Group F is already settled.