Malaysia receives citizenship boost, aiming for the showdown with Vietnam

Before the crucial match against Vietnam, Malaysia's team is cheered by news that a JDT star is close to finalizing naturalization, expected to enhance Malaysia's power.

The Malaysian national team is gearing up enthusiastically for the year 2026after gaining a significant morale boost from Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) star Manuel Hidalgo.

The year 2025 is seen as a transformative period for Malaysian football. Under the guidance of coach Peter Cklamovski, Malaysia showcases a modern, fast-paced, and disciplined style, making a strong impression in the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. Although FIFA annulled three of Malaysia’s wins due to issues related to naturalized players, the yellow-black squad maintains fighting spirit and asserts its regional standing.

After five matches, Malaysia leads Group F with a perfect record, securing all 15 points. This marks a significant breakthrough and opens the door for qualification to the 2027 Asian Cup finals.

With the whole team’s morale high, Harimau Malaya fans are even more excited as JDT’s technically skilled attacker Manuel Hidalgo hints at the possibility of Malaysian naturalization. Following JDT’s victory in the 2025–2026 FA Cup final against Sabah on December 14, Hidalgo stated:

“I am waiting until next year when I will officially become a local player since this is my fifth year living and playing in Malaysia.”

If the naturalization process is completed, Hidalgo will be a valuable addition to coach Peter Cklamovski’s attacking lineup, especially on the wings where Malaysia currently has stars like Arif Aiman, Safawi Rasid, Faisal Halim, and Ramadhan Saifullah.

Malaysia still has one final qualifying match, facing Vietnam on March 31, 2026 away. This is not only a chance for Malaysia to finish the qualifiers perfectly but also an opportunity for coach Cklamovski to test new personnel options, especially if Hidalgo obtains Malaysian citizenship in time.

With impressive form, team unity, and positive signs regarding the squad, Malaysia is showing strong determination to make a breakthrough in Malaysian football in 2026.