PETALING JAYA: All eyes will be on Lausanne today as Hector Hevel awaits a decisive ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) that could determine the next chapter of his career – and his future with Harimau Malaya.
The Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) midfielder is among seven footballers sanctioned by FIFA on Sept 25 last year, handed 12-month suspensions from all football-related activities over alleged falsified documents.
However, the players were granted provisional relief last month after CAS temporarily lifted the bans pending a final verdict.
Today’s hearing in Switzerland will determine whether Hevel and the rest are cleared to continue representing Malaysia or faces reinstatement of the suspension.
The Dutch-born player, who obtained Malaysian citizenship in May, had made an immediate impact on the international stage before the sanctions were imposed.
He scored on his debut in the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers against Nepal and featured in the 4-0 win over Vietnam.
While uncertainty lingers off the pitch, Hevel has continued to deliver on it.
The 29-year-old has impressed in a new role as a left wingback for JDT, notably in their 1-0 AFC Champions League Elite victory over Vissel Kobe that sealed a place in the knockout stages.
He also featured in the position during the 5-0 Malaysia Cup quarter-final first-leg win over Melaka.
JDT coach Xisco Munoz praised Hevel’s adaptability and intelligence, describing him as a player capable of excelling in multiple roles despite not being a natural wingback.
“Hector is a very intelligent player who understands the game. He has great control and can adapt to different positions,” said Munoz, who previously coached top-flight European sides Watford and Huesca.
“He is excellent at making quick decisions. Against Vissel, he delivered another very good performance.
“The team were aggressive in our pressing, and whether we changed systems or pushed Hector wide, the performance was outstanding.”
