PETALING JAYA: National football head coach Peter Cklamovski (pic) could have walked away when seven mixed-heritage players were sanctioned by FIFA last year over eligibility issues.
But he chose to stay.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the case, Cklamovski has continued to place his faith in the squad as they prepare for the 2027 Asian Cup third-round qualifier against Vietnam in Hanoi on March 31.
With the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) now reviewing the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) appeal against FIFA’s sanctions over alleged doctored eligibility documents, a decision is expected soon. Still, Cklamovski insists preparations will proceed as planned.
“I am committed to the players and the country. I could have left six or 12 months ago, but I came here to qualify for an Asian Cup and hopefully a World Cup. That dream is still inside me,” said Cklamovski.
“Everything else is noise. I choose to live in the land of hope. Our goal is to get the job done in March and take this country to the Asian Cup.
“If the worst-case scenario happens, it’s just a speed bump in a bigger story. Right now, we’re on the path to doing something special.
Cklamovski acknowledged the challenges of being a national coach but stressed that his focus remains firmly on matters he can control.
“Being a national coach is an honour, but it’s a unique challenge.
“I came here with grand plans because the passion here is incredible. I’ve learned that there’s only so much I can control off the pitch.
“So I will focus entirely on how we play, how we train and how we behave. If we keep delivering results, I hope it inspires the entire game to grow.”
He said he would name the best team for the clash against Vietnam.
“We want the strongest squad available. I’m watching all the players closely, gathering data and information to make the best possible decisions,” said Cklamovski.
“I’m looking for players in good health, with fighting spirit and quality football.”
Among the impressive ones are established names such as Safawi Rasid, Faisal Halim and Ramadan Saifullah.
Safawi’s recent two-goal performance – both headers – caught even his coach off guard.
“That was a nice surprise. I think it surprised him too,” said Cklamovski.
“Look at Faisal Halim – what a 12 months he’s had. When I first arrived, he wasn’t playing many minutes. Now he’s flying.
“He told me a year ago that he wanted to be an inspirational story for the nation, and he’s doing exactly that. He’s playing for himself, for the kids and for the next generation. That makes me incredibly proud.”
The coach is also keeping a close eye on Under-23 prospects.
“They have potential, but they need more exposure to senior football.”
He said that naturalised players - Brazilian striker Bergson da Silva of Johor Darul Ta’zim and Kuala Lumpur centreback Giancarlo Gallifuoco could be selected, subject to documentation clearance.
“If they become available, I expect them to add value. They have the right ‘we, not me’ mentality and a genuine passion for the country.”
The stakes are clear for Malaysia, finish top of the group and secure automatic qualification to the 2027 Asian Cup.
“We respect Vietnam as fierce rivals, but our objective is to win. We need to get the job done, finish top and book our ticket to the Asian Cup,” added Cklamovski.
