FIFA Rankings Shake-Up: Indonesia Climbs as Malaysia Faces Penalties

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) recently annulled Malaysia’s victories over Nepal and Vietnam due to the use of seven ineligible naturalized players. Consequently, Malaysia was handed 0-3 defeats in both matches, costing them six points in Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. This adjustment benefited Vietnam and Nepal, granting them three additional points each and securing Vietnam’s qualification as group leaders.

Malaysia’s point deductions not only affected the Asian Cup standings but also had a major impact on their FIFA ranking. The team lost a potential 25 points, causing their total to drop from 1,145.89 to 1,120.89, which could see Malaysia fall eight positions from 121st to 129th in the world rankings.

In contrast, Indonesia benefited from Malaysia’s drop. The Indonesian national team, previously ranked just below Malaysia with 1,144.73 points, moved up one place to 121st globally. The shift underscores how closely linked FIFA rankings can be among teams in similar tiers.

Indonesia also has the opportunity to climb further during the upcoming FIFA Series 2026 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. Scheduled matches against Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27 and potentially Bulgaria on March 30 could earn Indonesia up to 10.16 additional points if both victories are secured, providing a significant boost in the rankings.

If these matches go in Indonesia’s favor, their FIFA points could increase from 1,144.73 to 1,154.89, potentially moving the team from 122nd to 118th worldwide. This development highlights a promising period for Indonesia while Malaysia navigates the consequences of regulatory breaches.