PETALING JAYA: Time ran out for striker Bergson da Silva and defender Giancarlo Gallifuoco.
National football coach Peter Cklamovski revealed that the duo were not called up as their registration could not be completed in time for the final 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying match against Vietnam at the Nam Dinh Stadium on March 31.
The Australian said both players, who are eligible for selection through naturalisation after completing five years of residency and playing in Malaysia, could still be considered for future call-ups, though not for this fixture.
Bergson plays for Johor Darul Ta’zim while Gallifuoco plays for Kuala Lumpur.
"I was informed that their registration could not be completed in time for them to be available for the game," said Cklamovski.
"I’ve spoken to both players and they have a strong desire to represent the country. They should be available for the next camp."
There were also questions over the omission of Nacho Mendez, the JDT midfielder with Malaysian heritage who has been one of the standout performers this season.
"I think everyone would have seen - he came off injured in his last game a few days ago. So again, it’s an easy decision for me. He’s unavailable through injury."
The national team will depart for Thailand on Tuesday (March 24) to prepare for the tie against Vietnam.
Meanwhile, Cklamovski has described the recent points deduction from their 2027 Asian Cup qualifying campaign as a devastating blow, admitting it has left the players, staff and the nation frustrated after qualification hopes were dashed due to off-field issues.
"Many factors were involved, but when we talk about points deduction, it’s devastating and frustrating.
"Qualification has been taken away from us because of something beyond our control," said Cklamovski.
"But we will use that emotion to build this camp. We have a challenge to make this the best camp we’ve had, and to channel that energy into playing our best football."
Last week, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) ruled that Malaysia had fielded ineligible players in their wins against Nepal (2-0) and Vietnam (4-0) last year.
Both results have since been overturned and recorded as 3-0 defeats.
