Kuala lumpur: The decision by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) to overturn the results of three of Malaysia's Tier 1 international friendly matches, after finding they had fielded ineligible players, must be respected and accepted. Former national striker Safee Sali has suggested that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) move forward and focus on efforts to develop the country's football.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Safee stated, "FIFA have made a decision, and we must accept what has been stated, including the defeats and the penalties imposed. What is more important now is that we develop our game." He emphasized the need to learn from past mistakes and to focus on positive steps for the future. Safee made these remarks during a media conference on the 2025 MommyHana Safee Sali Superkids Cup Championships.
Commenting on the impact the decision might have on the national team, Safee expressed confidence in the Harimau Malaya players' determination to continue competing internationally. "Players surely want to win, and they will never give up. As long as they can play, there is still hope," he remarked. He also highlighted the importance of supporting the Harimau Malaya squad as they represent Malaysia on the international stage.
FAM confirmed today that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee had imposed sanctions on the national body for fielding ineligible players in three Tier 1 international friendlies. FIFA ruled that Malaysia's results in these matches have been overturned to 3-0 defeats, along with a fine of CHF10,000 (RM51,414).
The affected matches include Malaysia's 1-1 draw with Cape Verde at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras on May 29, the 2-1 victory over Singapore at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on September 4, and the 1-0 win over Palestine at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, on September 8.
Meanwhile, the 2025 MommyHana Safee Sali Superkids Cup Championships, scheduled at the MPAJ Stadium in Pandan Perdana on December 27, will feature four age groups: Under-8, Under-10, Under-12, and Under-14.