AFC distances itself from Malaysia's potential FIFA suspension
The allegations, made by Indonesian football pundit Justinus Lhaksana, better known as Coach Justin, suggested that the FA of Malaysia (FAM) had bypassed international eligibility regulations to field several South American-born players.
In his podcast "Bukan Bincang Sepak Bola Biasa", Justin accused Malaysia of using players with "fabricated lineage" and claimed FIFA could impose sanctions, including possible suspension until 2027.
However, neither FIFA nor the AFC has issued any confirmation.
AFC general-secretary Datuk Seri Windsor Paul dismissed the speculation, making it clear that any action related to eligibility falls under FIFA's jurisdiction, not the AFC's.
"We have not been informed of any suspension. Moreover, FAM would know first before anyone else," said Windsor.
"AFC has no information, as such matters come under the purview of FIFA."
The allegations surfaced after five South American-born players — Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, Jon Irazabal, Joao Figueiredo and Facundo Garces — featured in Harimau Malaya's 4-0 win over Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on June 10.
Coach Justin also claimed that Malaysia's involvement in the ongoing Under-23 Asean Championship — a tournament organised by the Asean Football Federation (AFF) — was only possible because it is a non-FIFA-sanctioned competition.
But without any official comment or evidence from FIFA, the claims remain unsubstantiated and speculative.
The FA of Malaysia (FAM) was unavailable for comment when contacted.
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