CAFA fume as Harimau Malaya pull plug on Nations Cup plans
The FA of Malaysia (FAM) announced on Wednesday that Harimau Malaya would not be taking part in the tournament, citing scheduling issues as the competition falls outside FIFA's official international window.
The timing means clubs are not obliged to release players, posing a major headache for the national team.
But CAFA weren't impressed.
In a strongly worded statement, the regional body said Malaysia had confirmed their participation well in advance and had been fully aware of the tournament dates - from Aug 29-Sept 8 - which have remained unchanged.
"Unfortunately, this late withdrawal disrupts several organisational processes, especially as planning and preparations are already in their final stages," CAFA said in a social media post.
"FAM stated their reason for pulling out was due to the tournament not being fully within the FIFA calendar, and therefore, player availability could be limited.
"However, under the competition rules, final squads - selected from a 35-man list - can be submitted on a match-by-match basis.
"This offers maximum flexibility, including the possibility of key players joining later in the tournament."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Straits Times
8 hours ago
- New Straits Times
FAM denies neglecting youth teams
KUALA LUMPUR: The FA of Malaysia (FAM) has denied neglecting youth development following the country's dismal performance at the recent Under-23 Asean Championship. FAM president Datuk Joehari Ayub stressed that under his leadership, equal emphasis is placed on every level of the national setup, from the senior team down to the Under-17s. And he is already laying the groundwork for deeper international affiliations and youth integration in the Super League. "There might be a misunderstanding," he said, addressing recent criticism that the national youth teams were neglected following Malaysia's group-stage exit in the Under-23 Asean Championship in Jakarta. "I can assure you, as president, that every level of the national teams, from senior to youth, is being cared for equally. "There's no bias toward any age group," he said. Joehari revealed that his recent trip to Melbourne was not merely observational, but involved high-level discussions with the Australian Football Federation about forming a long-term affiliation that could allow young Malaysian players to train and develop in the Australian system. "I also had discussions with the federation and their president about building an affiliation or attachment, where our players can go," he said. However Joehari admitted that funding remains a challenge in turning these ideas into reality, but hinted at one possible solution, introducing youth quotas in the Super League. "We're looking to find ways to give our young players more opportunities, especially in the Super League and the AFL," he said. "Maybe we can introduce quotas for young players in the Super League if teams agree. That's one of the approaches we'll discuss with the league organisers."
The Sun
20 hours ago
- The Sun
Serbia hit with partial stadium closure against England over fans' racist behaviour
FIFA has sanctioned Serbia with a partial stadium closure when they host England in a World Cup qualifier next month following racist behaviour by some of their fans during the 3-0 home win over Andorra in June, the Serbian soccer association (FSS) said on Thursday. Serbia, who were also fined 50,000 Swiss francs ($62,877), must keep at least 15% of the capacity behind the goals closed at Belgrade's Rajko Mitic Stadium when England visit for the Group K clash on September 9, the FSS added. 'The Football Association of Serbia once again appeals to fans... to remember that the FSS is under special monitoring by the FIFA and UEFA disciplinary bodies and that there is zero tolerance for violations of regulations and laws,' the FSS said in a post on X. Serbia were hit with partial stadium closures by UEFA last year over supporter behaviour during the Nations League. Third-placed Serbia visit Latvia on September 6 before welcoming group leaders England, who have won all three of their games so far. The winner of the five-team group will directly qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while the second-placed team will progress to the playoffs - REUTERS
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
Malaysian referee Nazmi Nasaruddin to officiate at FIFA U-20 World Cup
MALAYSIAN referee Muhammad Nazmi Nasaruddin has been appointed to officiate at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup 2025 in Chile, scheduled from September 27 to October 19. The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed the selection, alongside assistant referees Muhammad Zairul Khalil Tan and Mohamad Mu'azi Zainal Abidin. FAM expressed pride in the trio's achievement, stating, 'We want to congratulate the trio and wish them all the best in carrying out their duties at the championship. FAM's top leadership also wants to thank FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) for their faith in Malaysian referees.' Nazmi's selection follows his earlier recognition as a FIFA World Cup Candidate 2026, positioning him as a potential main referee for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He also holds the distinction of being the first Malaysian referee to oversee an Asian Champions League (ACL) match using VAR technology. - Bernama
